There are many times when a general practitioner makes the recommendation that a patient seek the services of an orthopaedic surgeon. Orthopaedic issues such as spinal problems, back problems caused by skeletal deformities, broken bones arising from an accident or major trauma require the specialized services of an orthopaedic surgeon. When this happens, you need to know how to choose the right specialist for your condition.
Treatments Done by an Orthopaedic Surgeon
An orthopaedic surgeon is a medical doctor with a specialization in the surgical treatment of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. Surgeons use both surgical and non-surgical means to treat patients with issues like muskuloskeletal injuries, sports injuries, congenital malformations, infections, and the like.
Your general practitioner may refer you to a specialist for a number of reasons. An orthopaedic surgeon typically deals with musculoskeletal-related medical issues and therefore he may perform specific types of surgeries such as foot surgery, hand and upper extremity surgery, joint replacements, hip surgery, spinal surgery, treatments for sports injuries, and the like.
Depending on the specific case, the surgeon may work with his own staff or as as part of a multi-disciplinary team. He or she is also tasked to provide comprehensive patient education to ensure that patients can make practical and informed decisions regarding their surgical options.
Choosing Your Orthopaedic Surgeon
The first step in choosing an orthopaedic surgeon is to obtain a referral from your doctor. Your doctor may give you a list but you can also ask friends, family members and even office acquaintances.
The next step is to research credentials and certifications. Each state has accredited organizations for licensed medical practitioners and specialists which is a good place to know if the surgeons on your list are members in good standing.
It is also important to research hospital quality and the kind of services offered. Top-tier hospitals often have fewer complications and post better survival rates especially with major surgeries such as orthopaedic surgery. Look into other factors like location, reviews about hospital services and overall reputation among orthopaedic patients. Patient satisfaction surveys done by third party groups are a great resource for finding important information about a hospital, its staff, services and patient outcomes.
The last step in choosing a surgeon is to go in for a personal consultation so you can ask questions, determine how well your surgeon can communicate with you, and whether or not you are comfortable with him or her. Orthopaedic surgery can be a major, life-distrupting medical process, so it is important that you can trust and communicate well with the surgeon you choose.
Looking for orthopaedic surgeons in Sydney? The city is home to numerous hospitals and clinics served by the best surgeons in the wolds so you can easily find the orthopaedic surgeon who can provide for your needs.
