Orthopaedic FAQs
If you've received a referral for an orthopaedic surgeon, you may have questions. This page answers some of the more common questions related to orthopaedic surgery.
If you have any questions or concerns that aren't covered here, your GP or your specialist clinic will be able to advise on your specific circumstances.
About Orthopaedic Surgery
Orthopaedic surgery is the medical specialty that deals with disorders of the musculoskeletal system, including the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves. Orthopaedic surgeons are medical doctors with extensive additional training who diagnose and manage musculoskeletal conditions using both surgical and non-surgical treatments, such as rehabilitation and medication.
Orthopaedic surgeons diagnose and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Fractures and traumatic injuries
- Arthritis and joint degeneration
- Sports injuries, including tendon, ligament and cartilage tears
- Back pain, disc injuries and spinal stenosis
- Soft tissue injuries and overuse conditions
- Hip conditions such as bursitis, impingement and labral tears
- Knee conditions including meniscal tears and ligament injuries
- Shoulder conditions such as rotator cuff tears, instability and frozen shoulder
- Hand, wrist and finger conditions including carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger
- Foot and ankle conditions including Achilles injuries, bunions and ankle instability
- Paediatric orthopaedic conditions
- Osteoporosis
- Bone tumours
In Australia, it takes approximately 14 years to become a qualified orthopaedic surgeon.
After completing a medical degree, doctors undertake clinical training before applying for specialist orthopaedic training, which takes an average of five years. Successful candidates achieve Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and Fellowship of the Australian Orthopaedic Association (FAOrthA).
Some surgeons undertake additional subspecialty training in areas such as hip, knee, spine or upper limb surgery.
When to See an Orthopaedic Surgeon
You may benefit from seeing an orthopaedic surgeon if:
- Pain is affecting your everyday life
- You are having difficulty performing daily activities
- Your joints are becoming increasingly stiff, swollen or painful
- You have an injury that isn't improving
- Your GP or allied health professional recommends further assessment
- You would like to better understand your treatment options
Your first step is to speak with your GP. They will help you know whether an orthopaedic surgeon is needed.
Yes. The orthopaedic surgeons at St Andrew's Toowoomba Hospital require a referral from your GP or another medical specialist before you can make an appointment.
Orthopaedic Treatment Options
Orthopaedic surgeons perform a wide variety of procedures. Common examples include:
- Arthroscopy (keyhole surgery used to examine and treat joint problems)
- Joint replacement surgery (arthroplasty)
- Fracture repair surgery
- Ligament and tendon reconstruction
Some surgeons perform a broad range of procedures, while others focus on specific areas such as the hip, knee, shoulder, hand or spine.
No. Surgery is only one of the treatment options available. Orthopaedic surgeons may recommend non-surgical treatments such as rehabilitation, physiotherapy, medication or other management approaches before considering surgery.
Minimally invasive surgery uses smaller incisions and specialised techniques compared to traditional open surgery. In some procedures, operations that previously required large incisions can now be performed using keyhole techniques.
Robot-assisted surgery uses advanced computer and robotic technology to help surgeons plan and perform procedures with a high degree of precision.
Elective orthopaedic surgery refers to surgery that a patient chooses, or elects, to have. Examples include joint replacement surgery and planned procedures to repair ligaments or tendons.
Your Consultation
Your consultation is designed to identify the cause of your symptoms and develop a management plan.
During your appointment, your surgeon may:
- Ask questions about your symptoms, health and medical history
- Examine the affected area
- Review previous imaging and test results
- Arrange additional investigations if required
- Discuss treatment options and recommendations
It is helpful to bring:
- Your referral letter
- Any imaging and reports (X-rays, MRI or CT scans)
- A list of medications
- Details of previous treatments or surgeries
You may wish to ask:
- What are the benefits and risks of my treatment options?
- Why are you recommending this treatment?
- How many of these procedures have you performed?
- What could happen if I don't proceed with treatment?
- Will I need prehabilitation before surgery?
- How long will recovery take?
- How will pain be managed?
- When can I return to work, sport or normal activities?
- What costs should I expect?
Please ask as many questions as needed to feel informed and comfortable with your treatment plan
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery times vary depending on the procedure and the individual. Recovery may take anywhere from a few weeks to several months or longer. Your surgeon will discuss expected recovery and rehabilitation timeframes based on your treatment plan.
Many orthopaedic procedures are supported by rehabilitation programs designed to help restore strength, movement, function and independence. Your surgeon will advise if rehabilitation is recommended as part of your recovery.
Costs and Funding
The cost of orthopaedic surgery depends on factors such as the procedure being performed, equipment requirements, anaesthesia and rehabilitation needs.
Private health insurance may cover some or all costs associated with treatment, depending on your fund and level of cover. You should check directly with your insurer to understand your entitlements and any out-of-pocket expenses.
Depending on your circumstances, funding may be available through:
- The Department of Veterans' Affairs (for eligible veterans)
- WorkCover
- Motor vehicle accident insurance schemes
Your surgeon can discuss available funding pathways and likely costs.