You always want to compare two (sometimes three) opinions
before undergoing hip replacement surgery. There are multiple reasons behind
it.
First, it is a time-consuming surgery that needs significant
time commitment. You need at least two months to recover fully. Second, it is a
major life-changing event. Third, it is an expensive affair.
Therefore, it is always better to gain perspective on your
condition by having a second opinion. Check the possibility of having
non-surgical alternatives, and then narrow down to the specific surgical
procedure which is best for you.
Sometimes, revision surgery is also required, but it can be
avoided if you find a right surgeon.
It is a crucial decision that warrants some thought
When you prepare yourself for hip replacement surgery, you
need to educate yourself about the options. Maybe, you are not the best
candidate for a total hip replacement surgery.
Even if there is unanimity between you and the surgeon about
the necessity of total hip replacement, you shouldn’t forget that each surgeon
has a different idea (and approach) about the treatment.
They use different materials for the implant, different dimensions
of femoral heads, and various processes.
Not only that, some surgeons believe in using progressive
surgical methods and technology. On the other hand, some doctors believe in
conventional ways.
For all of the reasons (and more), you need a second opinion
to get a better perspective on the hip replacement decision.
Common reasons for having a second opinion
When people do not understand the treatment choices or when
they feel that the doctor isn’t providing sufficient information or not
answering well, they seek the second opinion.
Some common reasons:
· The doctor suggests that surgery is the only
option. And he doesn’t even explain the non-surgical treatments and their
irrelevance.
·
The surgeon doesn’t tell the rationale for
surgery and its benefits.
·
The doctor prefers surgery through an incision
over minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery.
·
The doctor recommends additional surgery when
the person has already undergone a surgery that didn’t work.
·
The patient doesn’t feel comfortable with the
diagnosis. IT is not what he expected, and hence, wants to hear the same thing
from someone else as a second check.
·
The doctor doesn’t say anything about the next
steps, and the patient doesn’t find it the most informed decision.
Doctors say that a person is in charge of the decisions that
are made about health. He owes it to himself to feel comfortable with the
decision.
Therefore, it is quite normal to want to seek another
opinion.
How do people go for it?
You should ask the near and dear ones, friends or relatives
for recommendations of good doctors. You should prefer people who have been
treated with a similar condition, or they know someone who has been.
To get more information about the doctor, you should read
the physician profile and medical listings. It gives more information about the
doctor you end up choosing.
Before you proceed further, it is essential to check with
the insurance company. You need to be sure that the doctor you have chosen is
covered under the insurance network and you don’t get surprises later.
What if the opinions differ?
When it happens, you should ask a few questions to yourself.
- Which plan makes more sense to you ? And which one involves the least risk?
- What are the medical issues that are most important to you?
- Do you have any trusted friend, family member or someone else who can help in taking a more informed decision?
Based on the answers to the above questions you can derive a
balanced decision. You must on board a treatment plan that you feel the best.
Now that you’ve chosen a doctor for a second opinion, you
need to send the complete set of the medical record. Also, make a list of
questions to be asked to the doctor.
It will have a focused and to-the-point discussion. Also,
you will end up with a clear second opinion.
Experts suggest that someone should accompany the person
during the meeting. Having an extra set of ears is always better.
A hip replacement surgery is a life-changing event. Hence,
one should go for the second opinion to ensure the accuracy of the diagnosis.
Thane, Mulund, Navi Mumbai
Call 8369026337,02225690799
Send query at boneandjointcare78@gmail.com
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