Index of this page:
Comprehensive care
Questions
& Answers
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 he
patient who has a broken bone faces numerous problems. There is never a great time to have
a fractured bone. A fracture can have a devastating effect on a patient’s job, home
life, or future welfare. I have spent almost twenty four years treating a variety of
fractures. I have trained in fracture care in three different United States teaching
hospitals including the Massachusetts General Hospital where I was the chief of the trauma
service for six months. However, my most meaningful training took place in Switzerland
where I mastered the techniques that I use today to treat broken bones. The Swiss long
known for their outstanding craft work revolutionized fracture care with their approach to
the open fixation of fractures with plates and screw. I lived in the Swiss Alps for six
months to better understand how the Swiss treat fractured bones. |
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| I believe that fractures that present to my office will be
given comprehensive care which will include: |
1) explanation of the fracture and review of the films
2) a presentation of different treatment options based on my training in Boston,
Baltimore, Houston, and Switzerland
3) my personal recommendation for the fracture
4) a summary of the rehabilitation and time away from work
5) assistance if a second opinion is needed
6) assistance with any insurance or worker’s compensation
7) arrangement to see another surgeon if the particular problem may require the expertise
of another specialist such as a spine fracture.
8) a chance to ask any specific questions
9) assistance in getting fracture aids such as walkers or crutches
10) a very detailed look at the severity and complications of the fracture and the
treatment including long term issues |
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| Here are
some of the most common questions asked in my office: |
| Q: Is my fracture a compound fracture? A: A compound fracture is actually a fracture in
which the skin is broken over the bone. A comminuted fracture is a fracture with many
pieces but it does not go through the skin.
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| Q: Will the plates and screws set off the
metal detectors at the airport? A: With the recent increase in security this is occurring with
more frequency but it is not a problem.
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| Q: Will
I have a cast? A:
Every fracture is different. Children are usually treated with casts because they
heal so well. However, I try to fix adults so that cast are not used and so that we can
start early rehabilitation.
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| Q: Do
I need a bone stimulator? A: Bone
stimulators are used in my office if the fracture shows signs of slow or delayed healing.
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| Q: Does my
hardware stay in forever? A: We only take the hardware out if it bothers the patient.
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| Q: Should
I take calcium for my fracture? A: We will
have a discussion of your calcium and vitamin needs based on your age and overall health
but it is one area that I believe is very important.
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| Q: What is
the most common problem after fractures? A: Many
patients have joint stiffness and muscle weakness especially if they don’t do their
exercises or go to therapy.
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| Q: Will you do the operation? A: I will be the primary surgeon from start to
finish.
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| Q: Will
the surgery hurt? A: Fractures hurt but I use many
techniques to help with the pain after surgery. However, I will also make sure that you do
not become dependant on the medications.
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| Q: Have
you done this type of surgery before? A: If
I do not feel comfortable with a specific fracture than you can be sure I will find a
surgeon with extensive experience with that type of fracture.
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