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How to Vet an Orthopedic Knee Surgeon

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Imagine playing a pickup basketball game with your buddies, going up for a rebound and coming crashing to the ground with your knee buckled underneath you. You will want to find the best orthopedic surgeon to get you fixed up and back out on the courts, feeling better than new.

What Is an Orthopedic Surgeon?

Orthopedic surgeons are doctors who take care of disorders that affect the musculoskeletal system. Many orthopedics specialize in a particular body part, like the hand or back. Often, you will receive a referral to an orthopedist from your primary care physician. To become an orthopedic surgeon, a person must first complete medical school and complete a five-year residency program. Then most doctors go on to a one- or two-year fellowship to further hone their skills, as mentioned by US News and World Report. Receiving board certification from the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery is one way to know that your doctor is well-schooled, because it requires passing a difficult two-part exam and continuing education to maintain the certification

Finding an Orthopedic Doctor for Your Knee

Ask for referrals from trusted friends and family who have had similar issues. Your primary care physician should have a list of orthopedists to refer you to, and you could even ask your doctor who he or she would see. You can research your potential choice's credentials online and even read reviews from other patients. You can also search the Internet to see if doctors have been subjected to malpractice claims or if any other disciplinary action has been taken against them.

Consider the Doctor's Experience

Don't be afraid to ask questions or to meet with several doctors before settling on one to perform your surgery. A doctor with more experience will likely do a better job than one just starting out. Ask the surgeon how many patients with your specific condition he or she has treated. If you know you need a specific procedure, like an ACL repair or a total knee replacement, for example, ask how many of the procedures the doctor has performed. Ask what complications could arise and how the doctor would deal with them.

Orthopedics Who Take Medicaid

Be sure you know well in advance of your surgery date what kind of insurance the orthopedic accepts. Does the practice take private insurance? Are they Medicare/Medicaid accepted physicians? You don't want to be surprised with an enormous bill following your surgery. Be certain that your surgeon is covered by your insurance plan.

Consider Your Comfort Level

Do you need a surgeon with a good bedside manner? Or do you prefer someone who gets the job done and goes abut their day? You will likely have several follow-up appointments after your surgery in addition to the visit(s) prior. Make sure that your doctor is not only a competent physician, but someone with whom you feel comfortable.