Finding an Orthopedic Surgery Doctor

Finding an orthopedic surgeon is a critically important task and one the needs a bit of research and information. First of all, do you need an orthopedic surgeon or another medical professional? Orthopedic surgeons are trained to perform surgery of the bones and joints. For example, if you have severe arthritis of the knee, orthopedic surgeons are able to perform an operation to cut away the arthritic area, or, if there is a need, an orthopedic surgeon can replace part or all of the knee with a metal and/or plastic prosthesis. Orthopedists can operate on virtually any bone or joint though some bones and joints are usually the responsibility of other physicians and specialists. For example, while orthopedic surgeons can operate on the feet, many people would rather have their surgery performed by a podiatrist trained in surgery of the feet even though podiatrists do not have a Doctor of Medicine degree. Further, certain spinal surgeries, especially those in which the spinal cord may be involved, are better left to neurosurgeons rather than trusted to an orthopedic surgeon. In general, if you need a surgeon to repair broken bones, diseases of the bones, diseases of the joint (e.g. arthritis) or any joint replacement, you will look to an orthopedic surgeon. Once you know the correct type of surgeon to use, finding an orthopedic surgeon becomes a matter of high-end shopping, in a way.

 

 

Orthopedic surgeries are among the most expensive and time-consuming surgeries and if there are complications, they can be among the most damaging. Finding the right orthopedic surgeon is crucial in reducing the risk of unintended consequences. First, you want an orthopedic surgeon that is trained and board-certified. Sometimes teaching hospitals will allow resident physicians to perform surgery on you. These resident physicians have the M.D. degree, but they are not yet board certified in surgery. A board certified orthopedic surgeon has completed several years of training in surgery and has passed a rigorous test to prove that he or she has attained all of the knowledge required to perform orthopedic surgery. Second, find out the number of cases that an orthopedic surgeon has performed. Third, find out how many surgeries that they have performed of your specific surgery i.e. hip replacement. It is important to know how many they have done as first or lead surgeon. Some orthopedic surgeons will include surgeries that they have been “scrubbed in on.” This does not count. Also, feel free to ask about complication rate. Finally, find a surgeon with which you feel comfortable. Surgeons can be a brusque, in general, but trust your instinct. If your surgeon makes you feel uncomfortable during consultation, he or she may not be the right surgeon for you.