Surgery planned? – You should read this first!

Before a recommendation for surgery is made, a trial of non-operative treatment is usually appropriate. Non-operative treatment may include activity modification, braces, orthotics, physical therapy, chiropractic treatment and or injections depending on the condition for which you are being treated.

Right before you decide on surgery, you should be satisfied that non-operative treatment has been attempted, completed and has not improved your problems sufficiently, options of treatment conservative and surgical will be discussed at any time. We are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Objectives of surgery:

Operative procedures have specific objectives. Surgery is performed to relieve problems. Before opting for this procedure, the goal limitations will be explained and you should understand these goals/limitations.

Risks involved:

Surgery is recommended when the likelihood of benefit outweighs the risks and conservative treatment has failed. Nevertheless, risks do exist. There is the possibility of complications due to anesthesia, hemorrhage, death, fracture, non-improvement of preoperative pathology, and non-return to usual and customary occupation.

There could also be a nerve injury or a wound infection as well as possible deep vein thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, as well as re-operation. Fortunately, these complications rarely occur, but if you have any questions about them, please ask.

We encourage our patients to get second opinions

We encourage a second opinion if there is any question as to a diagnosis or plan of treatment. We can recommend a qualified orthopedic surgeon for this purpose.

Time Off Work:

Time off work will vary depending on the kind of surgery that you have had and the physical demands of your job. We hope to accommodate your needs with regards to your work. However, the key factors contributing to your return to work are your safety and comfort.

Anesthesia:

Most surgical procedures can be performed with the use of a regional block anesthesia. The risks of regional anesthesia are less than that of general anesthesia. Lower extremity surgery is carried out with spinal/epidural anesthesia. Upper extremity surgery is carried out with scalene blocks/axillary block or Biev block anesthesia. General anesthesia is an option.