How to Choose an Orthopedic Surgeon

Are you considering a shoulder, knee or hip replacement? It’s important to find an orthopedic surgeon who has expertise in your particular type of joint replacement, and who communicates well with you. Here are five tips to help you choose an orthopedic specialist.

1. Ask your primary care doctor for a list of recommended orthopedic surgeons.

Your primary doctor usually knows you well, and can refer you to orthopedic specialists who fit your personality. Good communication matters when considering any major surgery.

2. Look for an orthopedic surgeon who does a lot of your type of joint replacement.

Look for a surgeon who has a lot of experience in your type of surgery. For example, if you’re having an anterior hip replacement, pick a surgeon who does that newer surgery often.

3. Make sure the surgeon is board certified in orthopedic surgery.

Many of Sutter's orthopedic surgeons are board certified and experienced in various specialty surgeries. Go to certificationmatters.org or call 866-ASK-ABMS to see if the surgeons on your list are board certified. “Board certified” means the orthopedic specialist has completed extensive training and passed a stringent exam. 

4. Meet several orthopedic surgeons to find the one you’re most comfortable with.

Every person’s communication style is a bit different. You want a surgeon who you believe listens to you and hears your concerns. While you’re there, ask about the surgeon’s patient satisfaction ratings.

5. Check out the hospital your surgeon uses.

Hospital quality is just as important as your surgeon. Sutter hospitals have earned multiple awards for exceptional care and outcomes in orthopedic surgery. Top-rated hospitals have fewer complications. Go to medicare.gov/hospitalcompare to look up the hospital’s general rating for safety and complications.

Questions for Your Surgeon

Once you’ve chosen a surgeon, here are some questions to ask during your initial appointment.

• What procedures do you recommend for my case? Why? Why not others?
• How soon should I get treatment?
• What happens if I delay or decide not to have a procedure?
• How much does a recommended procedure cost? How do I ensure my health plan will cover the cost?
• How many times have you performed this procedure in the past year?
• What is your complication rate?
• What are the risks?
• What will my follow‐up care look like?
• Tell me about your medical team. Who is available to guide me through a procedure and my recovery?
• When will I learn what I need to do to prepare for surgery and recover from the
  surgery?