Orthopedic surgeons specifically manage issues related to your musculoskeletal system—the system that provides form, support, stability, and movement for your body. While the main components—muscle and bones—are fairly obvious, this system also includes cartilage, tendons, ligaments, joints, and connective tissue.
Your visit to an orthopedic surgeon might be for a chronic issue like carpal tunnel syndrome or for an acute injury like a torn meniscus, the thin fibrous cartilage in the knee. Like most office visits, your initial visit with your orthopedic surgeon involves diagnosis and the development of a treatment plan. And it can set the stage for a life-changing procedure.
Edward Yang, MD
“I went into medicine and specialized in orthopedics because of my love of fixing things with my hands,” says Edward Yang, MD, a board certified orthopedic surgeon and Chief of Orthopedic Surgery at Mount Sinai Queens. “This combined with my passion for helping people led me to surgery and the specialty of Orthopedics. The surgery we do can truly change our patient’s life.”
And the right surgeon can make a big difference. “I provide my patients with a written diagnosis, and treatment plan. In addition, I often video a short exercise program for them to do at home. If my diagnosis and your symptoms are severe enough to warrant surgery, I provide written pamphlets on the surgery that is being planned,” he says. “Make sure your surgeon also discusses the risks, benefits, and alternatives to treatment when discussing surgery. “
In this Q&A, Dr. Yang offers some suggestions for how you can prepare for a visit with an orthopedic surgeon and for orthopedic surgery.
Prepare for the visit: Communication and planning in advance for the visit are key. Research shows the more involved you are in your care, the better the results. The first steps are the same as for any doctor visit: compile the information you need to give your orthopedic surgeon a good medical history, including any other conditions or past surgeries, and all of the medications you are taking.
Write it down: Write down the reason for your visit; this one step provides tremendous clarity for both you and your doctor. It is important to focus, as much as possible, on the reason for your visit: When did the pain start? Where is the pain? What makes it hurt? What helps? Have you had this problem before? What is the quality of the pain? Try not to volunteer unnecessary information. Be prepared with a written list of questions, and plan to take notes during the visit.
Bring your images: A great tip for saving time and money is to bring copies of any scans or X-rays related to the reason for your visit. Most images are available in digital format and are easily transported to your doctor’s office on a disk or USB flash drive. Don’t forget the accompanying report from the radiologist.
The physical exam: Dress comfortably in clothes that are easy to change into and out of. This is the time to ask your questions and be clear about next steps. The next steps often utilize the diagnostic tools in the orthopedic surgeon’s toolbox.