Hello bookworm and welcome to alt.support.lupus
I don't know how to find doctors in the US. We don't have a (much)
choice in Canada.

If you don't get answers here, there might be other options.

For instance, for the orthopedic surgeon or rheumatologist
news:alt.support.arthritis
and/or http::/www.acor.org/ Mail Lists ..under L is a group for Lupus
Some of them might have tips.

There's a search here http://www6.aaos.org/memdir/public/memdir.asp
(you would want to check their credentials and experience, I guess).
but I imagine it would be comforting to compare with someone who's had
some experinece with same type of surgery?

Good luck, post anytime, we're listening.
J

Try http://www.rheumatology.org/directory/geo.asp?aud=mem

Select "North Carolina" and click on the box "Members providing patient
care", then on "Find a rheumatologist".  It will list them by city if I
remember correctly.

Dr. Ronald Falk is (I think) at the U. of N.C.  He could recommend one
if you don't find one in other ways.

Bruce

Ok, I'm CC this to Suzie. She'd in your general area. Maybe she can help.
Bev