Pioneering research begins with trailblazing leadership. Join us as we feature research leaders at the OrthoCarolina Research Institute (OCRI) like Dr. Jesse Otero.
As fellowship-trained adult hip and knee reconstruction surgeon, Dr. Jesse Otero has built a distinguished career defined by clinical excellence, academic leadership, and a deep commitment to advancing orthopedic care. He earned his Bachelor of Science from Stanford University and went on to receive both his MD and PhD from Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine.
He has been practicing medicine for nine years and has been a valued member of OrthoCarolina for seven years where he’s also been a leader in research with OCRI. Internationally recognized for his research, Dr. Otero has an extensive portfolio of peer-reviewed publications, as well as numerous national and international presentations.
His research focuses on some of the most complex and impactful areas in orthopedics, including periprosthetic joint infection, revision total joint arthroplasty, musculoskeletal infection, and clinical outcomes in complex hip and knee reconstruction. Through both his clinical care and research, Dr. Otero has made a profound difference in patients’ lives—often preserving not only mobility, but in some cases, life and limb.
Among his many professional affiliations and honors, Dr. Otero was recently invited to join the Knee Society, an elite, invitation-only organization that recognizes leaders in knee surgery and research.
One particular area of focus in Dr. Otero’s research and practice is treating and understanding the origins of Periprosthetic Joint Infection. Infections that involve a joint replacement are rare, extremely serious, and difficult to treat. Due to their expertise and commitment to research, OrthoCarolina’s Periprosthetic Joint Infection (PJI) Center treats more of these patients, through referrals, than anyone else in the Southeast. With that volume of patients, researchers formulate groundbreaking treatment plans with success rates of over 90%.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Otero and his wife, Dr. Chloe (Wisdom) Otero, have demonstrated extraordinary personal commitment to advancing orthopedic research. In lieu of traditional wedding gifts, they invited their guests to support the OrthoCarolina Research Institute by making donations. A meaningful gesture that reflects their shared belief in the power of research to transform patient care.
In a letter to their guests Dr. Chloe Otero wrote, “OCRI holds a special place in our hearts because it represents progress, innovation, and a brighter future for patient care.” The message goes on to say, “This cause is also deeply personal to us. Jesse works for OrthoCarolina, where OCRI plays a vital role in funding his research that contributes to these advancements. I also spent time at RTI International, am CITI certified, and hold a PhD — experiences that deepen my appreciation for the rigor, dedication, and impact of research.”
“We believe that supporting OCRI is one of the most meaningful ways to give back, helping to drive the discoveries that shape the future of medicine and patient care.”
The Oteros’ dedication, expertise, and generosity make him an integral part of both OrthoCarolina and the OrthoCarolina Research Institute.
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