Patient Information

The information provided in this page is to assist patients in understanding the processes that will be occurring before, during and after their surgical procedure.

Appointments

To make an appointment with Reef Orthopaedic Clinic, please send us your referral. We are happy to accept referrals by fax or email.

No referral is required for our Acute Injury Clinic, as you will be assessed by one of our GPs first, then your Orthopaedic surgeon.

Your referral will be reviewed by our surgeons and sometimes further imaging such as CT or MRI scans will be arranged for you. We will then contact you to arrange an appointment.

It is important that you bring all your X Rays and scans with you to every appointment. If you have had surgery elsewhere please bring a copy of your operation report. If you have a work related problem please bring all the relevant documentation and claim information.

You will be thoroughly assessed by your surgeon and different treatment strategies will be discussed. Many orthopaedic problems can be managed with medication, physiotherapy and other aids such as splints or orthotics. Sometimes surgery is planned and then it is important to ensure that you are mentally and physically prepared for it. This is so you can maximise your chances of obtaining the outcome that you want from your operation.

Pre Operative

If you and your surgeon have decided that surgery is the best treatment option please take time to consider this, ensure that you feel comfortable with your decision and that you have all the information you require. Do not hesitate to discuss this further, with a surgeon, your General Practitioner or family members. There are potential risks and complications associated with any operation and it is important that you understand this before committing to surgery.

Our practice nurse is available for pre operative care.

Please find below a preoperative questionnaire to help you prepare for surgery and an information sheet with some answers to common questions that you may have.

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Shoulder

The shoulder is a very mobile, shallow ball and socket joint that allows you great range of movement and power in the arm. Because the socket is shallow, the shoulder is vulnerable to dislocation. This can either be due to a congenital reason such as ligamentous laxity (double jointed) or an injury (eg sporting).

Procedure & Condition Videos

 

Hip

The hip joint is a very stable ball and socket joint that is commonly affected by arthritis or trauma. The good news is that Hip Replacement surgery is generally extremely effective at alleviating the pain of severe arthritis, dramatically improving function and quality of life. Dr McKewin specialises in modern techniques of primary and revision hip replacement surgery and will discuss this further with you at your consultation. After surgery it important to do the correct exercises and look after your new hip. Please find below some information on what to do after hip replacement surgery and how to get the most out of your new hip joint.

Procedure Videos

 

Knee

The knee joint is a hinge type joint that is supported by several ligaments both within and outside the joint. The knee is often injured in sporting accidents or may develop arthritis later in life. We are experienced in treating the full range of knee conditions from meniscal (cartilage) and ligament injuries through to severe arthritis affecting part or the entire knee joint. On the links below you will find useful information regarding ACL injury prevention, arthroscopic (keyhole) knee reconstructive surgery and Knee Replacement surgery.

Procedure Videos

 

Foot & Ankle

The foot and ankle is a complex area of the body comprising one quarter of the bones in your body and over 30 joints. It is not surprising that many people suffer from foot pain and problems. Historically many foot and ankle complaints have been poorly understood and treated. Modern treatment techniques involving podiatry, orthotics and surgery have significantly improved the outcome of many foot and ankle conditions. Dr Bryceson specialises in the treatment of all foot and ankle problems including acute injuries, bunions and chronic arthritic conditions. Please browse the information provided below.

Procedure Videos

 

Hand & Wrist

Document Downloads

Procedure Videos