Evaluating a potential knee replacement surgeon in person is an essential first step on your knee replacement journey. You will want to choose someone experienced who will consider your personal treatment goals. You can research doctors online, but it is important to schedule a consultation with a doctor before deciding on who should perform your knee replacement. During your consultation, you will want to ask questions, which should be carefully listened to and answered by your potential knee replacement doctor. We discuss how to research potential knee replacement doctors when choosing who to schedule a consultation with below!
How do I choose a knee surgeon when scheduling a consultation?
When evaluating a knee surgeon, you will want to consider the following about the doctor:
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Surgical background and experience:
You will want an experienced surgeon who will be able to avoid as many surgical complications as possible. You can evaluate this by checking if the surgeon is board certified, which indicates that the surgeon has had specialized training and passed rigorous orthopedic examinations. Next, you can verify their education and training by looking for a medical degree from a reputable medical school, followed by an orthopedic surgery residency. Research may be able to indicate if the surgeon is familiar with cases like yours, but this may be better determined during your consultation.
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History of successful surgeries:
You can evaluate a surgeon based on how many knee replacements they do per year. You can ask the clinic about the surgeon’s surgical volume (how many knee replacements they do). Typically, more experience equates to better surgical outcomes.
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Personal referrals and reviews:
Most orthopedic websites include reviews from patients. Other websites, healthcare review platforms, and social media platforms can also be used (with caution). Patient reviews are valuable perspectives from actual patients that could help shape your view of a potential doctor. Interviewing past patients in person is even better! They can provide personal insight and answer your specific questions. Your primary care physician or physical therapist could also provide you with a referral to a knee replacement surgeon.
In addition, you should research your insurance coverage, scheduling availability, and the overall office staff. You can typically find this information online or by calling the orthopedic office. Once you have narrowed down potential knee surgeon candidates, you are ready to schedule your consultation.
Who is a potential knee surgeon in Knoxville, TN?
Our board-certified knee surgeon, Dr. David Hovis, at ORTHOKnox orthopedic clinic should be a candidate for your knee surgeon consideration. For over 20 years, he has practiced orthopedic medicine, published numerous articles, and stayed abreast of the newest innovations in knee surgery. He has performed the most MAKOplasty® robotic partial and total knee replacements in the region. More details and links about Dr. Hovis and his team can be found here. Read verified patient reviews of Dr. Hovis here!
How can I schedule a consultation with a knee replacement doctor?
With its board-certified surgeon, ORTHOKnox has got you covered when it comes to choosing a qualified and personable knee replacement doctor. To schedule your consultation or knee replacement, call (865) 251-3030, or fill out our easy-to-use online appointment request form. ORTHOKnox also offers Urgent Orthopedic Care, so you can visit the office without an appointment if needed. We look forward to hearing from you!