Finding an Orthopaedic Surgeon: What to ask

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Finding an Orthopaedic Surgeon What to ask

There are many ways to find an orthopaedic surgeon. You can research online, including using the Find section of My Knee Guide. Referrals from other physicians or family members are also valuable. It is important to feel comfortable in your relationship with your surgeon. When interviewing a surgeon here are some questions to ask. As you answer each question, a checkmark will appear

How many knee replacements do you perform per year?

0-25

25-50

50-100

100-175

175+

Are you board certified?

YesNo

How many years have you been practicing medicine?

Do you perform only full(total) knee replacements, or partial knee replacements as well?

Total Knee ReplacementsPartial Knee ReplacementsBoth

What is your typical waiting period from the time I decide to have surgery to the actual date of surgery?

Weeks Months

During my post operative office visits, who will evaluate me?

SurgeonPhysician AssistantResident in trainingNurse

Do you identify any condition(s) specific to me, that would increase my chance of complications compared to a typical patient? If so, how will they be managed?

YesNo

At which hospital do you perform your knee replacements?

Is there a pre-operative teaching class at the hospital?

YesNo

Has this hospital received any distinctions, such as the Healthgrades Joint Replacement Excellence Award™?

YesNo

For my particular surgery, is there any need to use an accessory procedure such as computer navigation?

YesNo

Finding a Knee Replacement Surgeon