Choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important decisions you will make when getting hip replacement surgery. It is typically a low-risk procedure, but it is still major surgery and can lead to complications if you choose someone without the proper experience and credentials.
It is important to research any potential surgeons beforehand, as this decision can impact the surgery’s outcome and your long-term recovery. Let’s discuss nine essential tips you need to know when choosing the right hip placement surgeon.
1. Get Recommendations
Chances are your physician or family doctor can refer you to a hip replacement surgeon. You should ask them for recommendations, considering their knowledge in the field. They will be able to recommend someone who accepts your insurance plan and best suits your needs and personality.
If you have a community of people who had a similar surgery before, it is best to ask them. You can also search for qualified orthopedic surgeons online.
2. Review Their Medical Qualifications
Not all doctors are automatically qualified to do surgery, and not all surgeons can perform a hip replacement with high skill, great precision, and low risk. When assessing a surgeon, check for their board certification and find out if they are fellowship-trained.
3. Check Their Surgical Credentials
Once you find a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, you need to ask about the specifics of the surgical training they received. There are many different specializations, including but not limited to the following:
- Adult joint reconstruction
- Pediatric orthopedics
- Musculoskeletal oncology
- Orthopedic trauma
- Sports medicine
A surgeon specializing in hand surgery would not be able to perform a hip replacement with the same expertise. This is why it is important to select a surgeon who specializes in hip replacement.
4. Check If They Keep Up With Medical Advancements
Look for a surgeon with many years of experience doing hip replacement surgery who also keeps up with medical and surgical advancements. In order to have the most successful procedure with the best recovery possible, it’s necessary to go with a surgeon who strives to improve and keep up with advancements in their field.
5. Check Their Location
It is important to select a surgeon who is conveniently located near you. You will need to see them several times before and after your procedure, so it is a cost- and time-saving decision to go with someone who is close by. This will also ensure you can make it to all appointments and won’t have to cancel or reschedule as much.
6. Consider The Hospital They Are Connected With
An orthopedic surgeon can only do so much without the right environment, equipment, and infrastructure. That’s why you must also research their hospital affiliation.
What is its reputation? Does it have a well-supplied surgery wing? Does it have a group of qualified staff that can collaborate with your chosen surgeon? These will serve as the surgeon’s resources to conduct surgery well.
7. Look For Reliable Patient Reviews
Once you’ve checked what hospital an orthopedic surgeon is associated with, it is easy enough to find reliable patient reviews. Look at the hospital’s website online, and check the surgeon’s profile. It is better if they have a website of their own.
Read what their previous patients say about them, like the surgeon’s competency and mannerism. How about their approach to patients–are they friendly or not open to communicating? All of this will help you understand what you can expect from the surgeon.
8. Find Out About Health Insurance Options
Hip replacement surgery is quite an expensive medical procedure. You also need to account for the physical therapy necessary for post-operation recovery.
Therefore, you should ensure that the hospital and surgeon you choose will accept your health insurance. Also, review their billing regulations to avoid any hidden costs at the end.
9. Ask Questions
Finally, do not hesitate to ask questions to understand the procedure as clearly as possible. Look for a surgeon willing to answer all your doubts and confusions patiently.
Do you find their answers and explanations unsatisfactory? Do they make you feel suspicious regarding their competence? If so, you have the right to consider another surgeon.
Hip Replacement In Raleigh, Apex &Durham, NC
Are you looking for the best hip replacement surgeon to treat you in Raleigh, Apex and Durham North Carolina? Pick a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who genuinely cares for your well-being. Dr. Brett Gilbert has extensive experience in hip and knee replacement surgery. He is also an affiliate of highly-rated hospitals and surgery centers in North Carolina.
If you wish to consult with him, contact us at (919) 788-8797. You can also set up a consultation through our online appointment form. We look forward to giving you the quality care you deserve to live a healthy life.
