After you have narrowed your search for the best knee surgeon near you comes the preparation for your appointment. Patients who are informed are empowered and come prepared with questions. It is recommended that patients seek information to help them weigh the risks and benefits of different treatment options and actively participate in decisions regarding their health.
Let’s discuss some of the important questions to ask before your appointment with an orthopedic knee surgeon.
#1 What Should I Bring to the Appointment?
Calling the doctor’s clinic before your appointment serves multiple purposes, ensuring a smoother and more productive visit:
- Confirm the date, time, and location of your appointment, to reduce the risk of misunderstandings or scheduling errors.
- Inquire about what you need to bring in terms of medical records, previous imaging scans, or reports that would be helpful for the knee surgeon to review during your consultation.
- If you have any special needs or accommodations, such as wheelchair access or interpreter services, notifying the clinic in advance enables them to make suitable arrangements.
- Informing the clinic of any changes to your personal information, insurance coverage, or medical history since scheduling the appointment ensures accurate records and seamless continuity of care.
#2 Understanding Your Knee Condition
- What is the specific diagnosis of my knee condition? Seeking clarification on the exact nature of your knee issue can help you understand the problem and its implications. Knee pain could be caused by a meniscus tear, ligament tear, or arthritis.
- What caused my knee problem? Inquiring about the underlying causes of your condition can provide insights into potential triggers and risk factors to address. Painful knee conditions can be a result of overuse, sports, or wear and tear.
- What are the treatment options available for my knee condition? Discussing various treatment options, such as medication, injections, and surgery, can help you explore the best course of action.
#3 Surgical Approach and Expectations
- What surgical procedure do you recommend for my knee condition, and why is it the best course of action? The knee surgeon may recommend either a partial knee replacement or a total knee replacement for advanced arthritis or arthroscopy for meniscus tears, ligament tears, or cartilage tears.
- What are the expected outcomes of the surgery, including pain relief, mobility improvement, and long-term success rates? Over 800,000 knee replacements are performed annually in the US, and a well-maintained knee joint can last up to 15 years. Over a million arthroscopic knee surgeries are performed each year in the US.
- Can you provide insights into the surgical process, including preparation, anesthesia options, and post-operative care? Minimally invasive knee replacement surgery usually lasts two hours, while arthroscopic surgery of the knee can last between 30 minutes and an hour.
Knee Surgeon’s Experience and Expertise
- How many knee surgeries of this type have you performed, and what is your success rate? It’s essential to inquire about success rates specific to the procedure you may undergo to assess the surgeon’s proficiency and the likelihood of a favorable result.
- Do you have specialized training in knee procedures? For example, if you are considering a joint replacement, you need an orthopedic surgeon trained in knee replacement surgery, particularly minimally invasive knee replacement. Minimally invasive knee replacement has advantages such as less pain and a faster recovery.
Post-Surgery Care and Rehabilitation
- What does the recovery process entail, including hospital stay, pain management, and rehabilitation? Minimally invasive knee surgery usually does not require an overnight hospital stay, depending on the patient’s overall health.
- How soon can I expect to return to normal activities, and what restrictions or precautions should I follow post-surgery? With joint replacement surgery and knee arthroscopy, patients can recover much quicker.
- Are there any potential complications or risks associated with the surgery, and how are they managed? Minimally invasive surgeries require smaller incisions and minimal tissue disturbance, which lowers the risk of complications.
- How can I best prepare myself and my support system for the surgical experience, including transportation, accommodations, and caregiving? Patients must arrange transportation from the hospital or facility and may need assistance during the first few days following knee surgery.
Top Knee Surgeon in Dover, NJ
The board-certified orthopedic surgeons at Orthopedic Associates of West Jersey are fellowship-trained in minimally invasive knee surgery. This opens our patients up to much more advanced procedures that enhance recovery. An exceptionally skilled and compassionate team of orthopedic professionals will guide your care.
In addition to our talented medical professionals, we have a friendly and approachable clinic staff who can assist you with your questions regarding preparing for an appointment. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (973) 989-0888 or use our convenient appointment request form.
