FAQs

There’s no one-size approach to determining the need for surgery. Our orthopedic experts will carefully evaluate your condition, run advanced diagnostic tests, such as CT scans, MRIs, and X-rays, and try addressing the root cause of your problem with conservative treatments, such as epidural injections, physical therapy, and nerve blocks. If conservative care fails to yield results, your orthopedic experts may explore surgical treatment options. They may also recommend surgeries to prevent the risk of future complications.

Depending on the type of imaging tests used, they’re usually safe for pregnant women. Diagnostic x-rays don’t produce nearly enough radiation exposure to threaten a developing embryo or fetus. However, if you’re particularly anxious, your surgeon can discuss your diagnostic and imaging options ahead of time.

Arthroscopic surgery is a procedure wherein small incisions are made on the skin’s surface to insert a miniaturized camera and surgical tools. The camera projects visuals of the inner structures of the patient’s musculoskeletal system on a computer screen, allowing the surgeons to perform the procedure without large incisions. Arthroscopic surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure with minimal downtime.

All orthopedic surgical procedures involve swelling, mild pain, and discomfort. However, your surgeons will recommend pain medications to reduce the discomfort and offer guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery.

The recovery process may take anything from a few days to a few months, depending on your underlying condition, the surgical techniques, and the body’s healing rate. Most people can return home an hour or two after the surgery, following which you can recover from the comfort of your own home. You must consult your surgeon about the right time to return to work or activities.

Orthopedic surgery aims to restore complete functionality, though it may take several months of physical therapy to get back to your original condition. Some patients may experience some limitations with orthopedic surgery. You should discuss your post-surgery expectations with your surgeon — everyone has a different journey.

Recent advances in medical technologies and the materials used for artificial joints have significantly increased the longevity of total and partial joints. Generally speaking, arterial joints now last for 15 to 20 years, depending on your activity level, weight, overall health, and other factors.