FAQ's
General
How do I make an appointment?
Call us during our working hours
- Nuffield Newcastle UL:
- Rowley Hall Stafford: / Mobile
Do I need a referral to make an appointment?
Check with your insurance company to see if a referral is necessary. This is mainly to try to ensure that the specialist you are seeing is appropriate for you and your condition.
What to bring for your initial consultation?
For your initial consultation you will need to bring a referral letter from your physician if necessary.
Here is check list for your initial consultation
- Insurance information (Authorisation Code and Policy Number)
- Referral Letter (if required)
- Copies of results, X-rays, MRIs, CT scans etc. and any other relevant information
- List of medications (if any)
- Please inform the hospital of any investigation you have had from the same condition or please let my secretary (Lorraine ) know
We encourage you to come to your initial consultation with a written list of questions to ensure you don’t forget to ask them when you are seeing the doctor.
Are my medical records kept private and confidential?
Your medical file is handled with the utmost respect for your privacy. Our staff is bound by strict confidentiality requirements as a condition of employment regarding your medical records. We will not release the contents of your medical file without your consent.
How long do I need time off work after the surgery?
The post-operative recovery period depends on the specific surgery. For patients who are recovering from shoulder surgery, please refer to our protocols listed in shoulder surgery protocols. For any other surgery, please discuss with your consultant.
How long before I can resume driving?
This varies based on particular surgery.
When can I resume exercise?
Your doctor will instruct you about post-treatment exercises – the type and the duration to be followed. You may be referred to a physical therapist to help with strengthening and range of motion exercises following surgery.
How do I contact after hours?
There will be a point of contact 24 hours a day for any concerns you may have. You will be provided with contact details following your treatment.
Medical
What are the non-surgical treatment options?
The non-surgical treatment options include rest, medications including analgesics and antibiotics, injections, and physical/occupational therapy.
Will physical therapy be required after surgery?
Getting full range of motion, strength, and flexibility back after surgery usually takes time. That is where pre-operative exercise, education, and post-operative physical therapy programs come in – to ensure you are physically and emotionally prepared for surgery and to maximize your recovery after surgery.
What are the risks associated with surgery?
As with any surgery, risks include reactions to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, stiffness and nerve damage. Your doctor will discuss the risks associated with your specific procedure.
When can I return to daily activities?
This varies depending on the type of procedure undergone, and can range from a few days to a few months. Return to all activities, sports and exercise can take up to four to six months. Your doctor will advise you depending on your particular health condition.
What can happen if surgery is avoided?
Some complications of not undergoing an orthopaedic surgery for your condition include pain, loss of joint motion, joint weakness, numbness and an early onset of arthritis.
What are the most common injuries?
The most common orthopaedic injuries are sprains and strains, fractures, and dislocations. Injuries can occur when playing indoor or outdoor sports or while exercising. Sports injuries can result from accidents, inadequate training, improper use of protective devices, or insufficient stretching or warm-up exercises.