10 Questions to Ask Your Orthopedic Surgeon

Taking a proactive role in your orthopedic treatment is essential, especially if you’re getting surgery. Here are 15 questions you can ask your orthopedic surgeon to participate in your care actively:

1: What’s my diagnosis, and how is it related to my pain?

Understanding your diagnosis helps you fully understand your treatment options and enables you to make informed decisions about your care going forward in your treatment plan. 

2: Are there alternatives to surgery? 

If your orthopedic surgeon has recommended surgery, it’s likely that you’ve exhausted all other treatment options or are not seeing any pain relief or progress from conservative methods. Your orthopedic surgeon will help you explore your options if surgery is right for you. 

3: How experienced is your team with this kind of surgery?

Building trust with your medical team is essential, and this question is expected. Your doctor will understand and be happy to discuss their experience, success rates, and the number of surgeries they’ve performed. 

4: What are the benefits and risks of this surgery or treatment?

You can make an informed decision when you know the benefits and risks of your treatment options.  

5. How can I prepare for this surgery or treatment?

   Your orthopedic surgeon will give you lifestyle instructions to prepare for surgery or treatment, including when to avoid alcohol, eating, or drinking before the procedure and what activities to avoid leading up to and after your orthopedic procedure. 

6: What’s the expected outcome for this procedure, treatment, or surgery?

Asking about expected results, including improvements in mobility and a reduction of pain, can help you plan your recovery. You can also ask about pain management before and after your procedure. 

7. What can I expect from the recovery process?

Asking questions about the recovery process helps you plan your recovery, especially if you’ll be immobile, need assistance and aftercare, or be in the hospital for a few days. 

8. Will I be under anesthesia or sedated?

   Ask what kind of anesthesia will be used, how it will be administered, and if it’s covered by insurance. This helps you be prepared for and understand your surgical copays and post-treatment fees.

9. Will I need physical rehabilitation or therapy after my treatment or surgery?

   Some orthopedic procedures, like a total joint replacement, require physical therapy afterward. You can make an informed decision when you know about your after-care needs as well. 

10. What should I do if I have questions or concerns after my procedure or surgery?

Knowing how to reach your orthopedic surgeon for post-operative questions about complications or concerns can give you peace of mind going into your procedure.