Athens, Ga. (August 27, 2025) – Dr. Chris Gaunder's path to becoming a leading orthopedic surgeon for Piedmont is a story of discipline, service, and a deep commitment to improving lives. A former University of Georgia football player and U.S. Air Force officer, Dr. Gaunder now specializes in hip and knee replacements, combining precision, compassion, and innovation in every procedure.
After concluding his military service in 2022, Dr. Gaunder joined Piedmont full-time, drawn by the organization’s commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. “At Piedmont, I can offer the most advanced surgical technologies to every patient, regardless of their background or insurance,” he said. “That level of equity and excellence is rare—and it’s why I’m proud to be here.”
His approach to medicine is shaped by his time as a resident at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, where he treated Soldiers returning from injuries sustained on the battlefield. His patients come with a set of diverse goals—from returning to active duty to simply regaining the ability to hold their children. “Understanding what each patient hopes to achieve is essential,” he explained. “That insight helps me tailor treatment plans that are both realistic and transformative.”
In the operating room, Dr. Gaunder leads a surgical team with the precision of a championship squad. “We’ve built a culture of trust and efficiency. Everyone knows their role, and we work seamlessly together,” he said. “Patients often ask for specific surgical team members by name, which speaks volumes about the care we deliver.”
The results are life-changing. “Just today, I had six patients come in with hugs, cards, and gifts,” he shared. "One woman lost nearly 100 pounds after her hip replacement and had just returned from a cruise. Another gentleman went from disability to full-time work. These moments remind me why I do what I do.”
Dr. Gaunder is also advancing the future of orthopedic surgery, utilizing robotic-assisted technology and custom implants to improve outcomes. He’s particularly focused on innovations that could eliminate post-surgical infections—one of the most serious complications in joint replacement. “We’re on the verge of developing implants that could be a game-changer for patient safety and recovery.”
Despite a career marked by championship wins and military service, Dr. Gaunder remains grounded in family and community. “I’ve held the SEC championship trophy and served under pressure in the military,” he said. “Now, I find the greatest joy in sharing everyday moments with my children—whether it’s at the stadium or cheering from the couch.”
“Watching Chris grow from a determined student-athlete into a compassionate and highly skilled orthopedic surgeon has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career,” said Dr. Robert Hancock, Orthopedic Surgeon and former Orthopedic Team physician for the University of Georgia Athletic Association. "From the moment I met Chris as a player at the University of Georgia, I saw his potential—not just in medicine, but in leadership and service. His dedication to his patients, his team, and his craft is unmatched. I’m proud to have played a role in his journey and even prouder to now call him a colleague.”
Dr. Gaunder exemplifies Piedmont Healthcare’s values through every step of his journey—from the discipline and teamwork forged on the football field to the precision and compassion he brings to the operating room. He champions patient-centered care by delivering transformative outcomes and building meaningful relationships, and he fosters collaboration through a surgical team that operates with championship-level synergy. His embrace of innovation and commitment to excellence continue to elevate orthopedic care across Georgia. From the gridiron to the operating room, Dr. Gaunder’ s story is one of purpose, leadership, and lasting impact.