The West Idaho Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center (WIO), a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOC), recently supported and expanded on the AAOC's recommendations for patient-doctor communication before total joint replacement surgery. In an effort to make the medical staff of the orthopedic center more accessible to area residents considering minimally invasive surgery for joint replacement, doctors George Nicola MD, Charles Schneider MD, John Smith MD, Michael Shevlin MD and Robert Hansen MD have offered suggestions for questions patients should ask an orthopedic surgeon prior to a procedure.

The center specializes in all aspects of orthopedics such as occupational health, physical therapy and minimally invasive joint replacement surgeries.

“Patients considering a wrist replacement, elbow replacement or shoulder replacement often have questions about returning the arm to full mobility”, says Dr. Robert Hansen MD, a specialist in surgical procedures on the hands and arms. The orthopedic surgeon recommended that patients perform due diligence in asking their surgeons the following questions.

-What is the likelihood of experiencing complications?
-What are some of the more common complications that can occur?
-What are the potential outcomes if no surgery occurs?
-How long is the expected recovery period?
-How will physical therapy affect the outcome of the surgery?
-How many similar surgical procedures have you performed?

Dr. Hansen suggested that Meridian, Caldwell and Boise area residents who have considered total joint replacement arrange consultations with their surgeons well before any wrist replacement, elbow replacement or shoulder replacement is scheduled.

Knee replacement and hip replacement patients face additional challenges, noted George Nicola MD, a specialist in MAKOplasty procedures that use a robotic arm to facilitate minimally invasive surgery. Because these joints affect mobility, patients should know what to expect by addressing the following concerns with their surgeons.

-After replacement surgery, how long is the expected hospital stay?
-How long is the typical bed rest period after surgery?
-Do most patients require mobility assistance throughout the recovery period after a knee replacement or hip replacement, or will a walker or cane only be necessary for a short time?

Residents of Caldwell, Meridian or anywhere in the greater Boise area can contact Charles Schneider MD, John Smith MD, Michael Shevlin MD or any of the personnel at West Idaho Orthopedics for more information. The occupational health and joint replacement specialists can answer questions that patients may have about replacement procedures.

West Idaho Orthopedics
206 E. Elm Street
Caldwell, Idaho 83605
208-459-4511

For more information about total joint replacement please visit http://www.westidahoorthopedics.com/procedures/joint-replacement.aspx