Answers to Common Ortho Questions
Disclaimer:
The questions and answers presented here are for informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for medical advice and information from your healthcare professional. Prior to making any decisions about your healthcare you should consult with your Physician.The following are common questions that we encounter in our practice.
1. Q. Why do I need an X-Ray?
A. X-rays show the anatomy of the bone. We always want to make sure it appears “normal” and helps us determine a more accurate diagnosis.2. Q. Why do I need additional x-rays, if I have brought some from an outside x-ray facility?
A. Every x-ray facility takes different views of the bone x-rayed. They may not be the exact views that we are looking for. If we repeat the films, we are trying to get the best x-ray possible to give our patients the most complete care.3. Q. What is the difference between MRI and X-Ray?
A. MRI is a diagnostic study which shows provides us images of soft tissue anatomy in multiple different planes. X-ray shows us a view of the bone without the soft tissue anatomy. Sometimes both are needed to create a definitive diagnosis for the patient.4. Q. Is there a difference between a “fracture” and a “break” in the bone?
A. No. The terms are synonamous. “Fracture” is typically a medical term. “Break” is typically a lay-mans term. Neither determine the severity of the injury.5. Q. Does my insurance cover this? (ex: MRI, Medical Equipment, X-ray... etc.)
A. Everyone’s insurance is different, some may cover it in full, some may only cover a portion of the test or equipment. The real answer is to check with your individual insurance carrier to determine exactly what your benefits are and what they cover.6. Q. My child has injured themselves, its been 2 days and they still have pain. Is it just a sprain?
A. Usually NO. Children with open growth plates typically do not get sprains. They typically they get growth plate fractures (Salter Harris fractures). If a child has pain in an area that is lasting more than a day, and/or has bruising and swelling associated with it, they should be brought in to be evaluated by a professional.7. Q. Can I take my surgical bandage off?
A. No. We prefer that all of our surgical patients leave their bandages in place until we see them at their first post-operative visit. If the bandage is loose or you have concerns about it, we recommend contacting the office for further instructions.8. Q. Can I put anti-biotic ointment on my incision/ laceration?
A. No. We prefer cleaning the incision/ laceration with rubbing alcohol, and placing a clean dry sterile dressing over it. The ointment can trap bacteria in the wound, it also may keep it too moist and delay healing.9. Q. Can I get my incision wet?
A. Typically No. We prefer that the stitches are removed and that the incision is fully healed before you get it wet.10. Q. My insurance carrier/ employer requires me to have paperwork filled out by the physician. Will the doctor complete it?
A. Yes. The forms are usually ready within 7 days of being dropped off. There is a fee associated with filling out the forms. (The office will go over these at drop off). Forms are typically completed on weekends or after office hours.