St. Margarets Health - How To Choose an Orthopedic Surgeon

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How to

Important Points:

1. It is important that you find a surgeon who special- izes in what you need.

2. At your initial consul- tation with an orthopedic surgeon, try to understand their medical philosophy.

3. The best surgeons help you with preparation and recovery from your medical treatment.

4. Different hospitals have different levels of technolo- gy and equipment. You will want to have the procedure done at a hospital that is equipped to fit your needs.

The right orthopedic sur- geon will help heal injuries
to your shoulders, hands, joints or knees. These medical professionals provide help for sports injuries or joint re- placements.

Many orthopedic specialists become experts at performing one or two types of proce- dures. Keep in mind that the more experience they have with cases like yours, the more likely you will have a good outcome after the proce- dure.

The best surgeons help you with preparation and recovery from your medical treatment. They do more than just per- form an actual procedure.

CHOOSE AN

ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON

– Time, persistence and research can put you on the right path to recovery.

feel more relaxed about your health care decisions.

When you are having a ma- jor surgical procedure on your musculoskeletal system, it is essential to nd the best med- ical professional for the job.

where he attended medical school and where he did his residency.

Full Spectrum

Time, persistence and re- search can put you on the right path to recovery. Here are some tips to help you nd the best surgeon for your needs.

Philosophy

They will take the time to answer all your questions patiently and offer practical suggestions to help you has- ten your recovery. As well, the doctor will look at your lifestyle to help you become healthier. He will not simply x your broken or painful body part. Changing your lifestyle and taking better care of yourself may lessen the need for surgery in the future.

Recommendations

Some surgeons prefer hav- ing patients try other options -- such as physical therapy, dietary or lifestyle changes
-- before performing surgery. Others think it is wiser to do surgery before a problem gets worse.

Ask your primary care phy- sician for the names of ortho- pedic surgeons. Your doctor is the best resource for nding a medical professional who can handle your case effectively. Other medical professionals in his practice might also be able to refer you. It is import- ant that you nd a surgeon who specializes in what you need. For example, a man with a sports injury and an elderly person who needs a knee replacement will require two very different doctors.

Hospital Privileges

Request information about the surgeon’s background,

The surgeon should make you feel comfortable and condent. A good bedside manner, with excellent knowl- edge, experience and com- munication, will make you

If you prefer to have the surgery performed at a partic- ular hospital, check to make sure the surgeon is approved to operate at the facility.

Qualied doctors don’t often share the same philoso- phy when it comes to medical treatment.

At your initial consultation with an orthopedic surgeon, try to understand their med- ical philosophy. Think about whether it matches your ex- pectations.

Surgeons must be allowed to operate in facilities. Dif- ferent hospitals have differ- ent levels of technology and equipment. You will want to have the procedure done at a hospital that is equipped to t your needs.