Making the decision to undergo a total knee replacement (TKR) can be daunting. The process can include finding a high-quality hospital and surgeon as well as estimating out-of-pocket costs; all with little direction and limited information. Following are some questions to ask your orthopedic surgeon to help you make a sound decision about the quality of care you will be receiving throughout the course of your TKR and rehab.
- How many total knee replacements do you perform each year?
- Which type of knee implant model will I be receiving?
- Will my ligaments be preserved?
- Will bone cement or porous metal be used for fixation?
- How many TKRs have you performed with that type of knee implant model?
- Have there been any recalls with the knee implant you will be using?
- Why is this knee implant model the right model for me?
- Have you ever had to perform revision TKR?
- Does my health put me at risk for a revision TKR or any complications?
- How much time do your TKR patients typically spend in the hospital after surgery?
- How many weeks do your TKR patients typically spend in rehab?
- Which rehab facility will be best for me?
- What will my out-of-pocket costs be? How can I estimate these costs?
The answers to these questions should help you make informed decisions about your TKR. Unfortunately, insurance may limit some options available to you such as surgeons and rehab facilities. Nonetheless, many orthopedic surgeons perform TKR with high quality outcomes and many hospitals will provide quality care during your stay; it’s just a matter of finding the best match for you.
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