Orthopedic surgeons specialize in treating disorders of the musculoskeletal system. This
commonly includes conditions and injuries affecting the hips and knees, among other locations. Since chronic pain related to the joints, from age-related arthritis to sports injuries, are so widespread, many people seek out orthopedic surgeons to find relief.
As a major metropolitan area with an active population, particularly among people of retirement age, Tampa, Florida, has no shortage of orthopedic surgeons. If you are seeking an orthopedic surgeon in Tampa, equipping yourself with as much knowledge as possible can help you find one who is right for your care needs.
Outpatient Joint Replacement Center of America (OJRCA) and orthopedic surgeon Dr. Philip Clifford are leading providers of outpatient surgery in the Tampa Bay area. At our state-of-the-art center, we can help you learn more about your condition and treatment options, so you can develop a personalized treatment plan. Our passion is getting people back to an active lifestyle and better quality of life on the most cost-effective basis.
Please take a moment to read the following guide to finding an orthopedic surgeon so you can better determine your own treatment needs. We’re here to help and invite you to reach out to one of our representatives if you have any questions or would like to learn more.
Are You Ready to Undergo Orthopedic Surgery?
Orthopedic surgery to relieve chronic knee or hip pain and improve mobility is typically an elective procedure that should be considered if conservative treatment options have not been effective. Effective nonsurgical, conservative therapies can include:
- Periods of rest
- Alternating hot/cold compression to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation
- Activity modifications and lifestyle improvements to reduce stress on your joints
- Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Therapeutic injections
- Physical therapy
If pain and mobility problems do not improve enough to comfortably engage in activities of daily life, your doctor may recommend you consult with an orthopedic surgeon. For people dealing with pain related to severe joint damage, a common surgical option is joint replacement surgery. This type of orthopedic surgery removes the damaged surface of a joint and replaces it with an artificial implant designed to restore function and reduce pain.
Is Outpatient Surgery Right for You?
One of the reasons why many patients are reluctant to undergo joint replacement surgery are the risks and difficulties associated with traditional hospital-based procedures. Fortunately, advances in technology and surgical protocols have enabled orthopedic surgeons to take a less invasive approach that allows for most patients to have an outpatient procedure at an Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC)..
By reducing hospital-associated costs and risks, outpatient joint replacement surgery is a cost-effective and safer alternative. Patients who undergo outpatient joint replacement surgery can return home just a few hours after the procedure and typically experience a shorter and less difficult recovery period.
While there are no age restrictions for orthopedic procedures performed in an ambulatory surgery center, there are certain medical conditions that require overnight monitoring in a hospital. Before being cleared to undergo outpatient surgery, patients should expect to undergo a thorough medical history screening and physician evaluation.
Finding a Qualified Surgeon Who Specializes in Your Condition or Injury
One of the most critical aspects in your search for an orthopedic surgeon in Tampa or any location is to find someone who meets your personalized selection criteria. In addition to graduating from an accredited medical school, qualified orthopedic surgeons must also complete a surgical residency and fellowships in their chosen area of specialty. Make sure any surgeon you consult with is licensed to practice in your state.
In addition to having the right credentials and experience, you also want to find an orthopedic surgeon who you trust and with whom you feel comfortable. Undergoing surgery is often one of the biggest decisions you will make. A good orthopedic surgeon should spend adequate time explaining the procedure and recovery, make eye contact, carefully explain your condition and surgical options and take the time to answer any questions you have.
An orthopedic surgeon’s staff and facility can say a lot as well. Are you greeted warmly and treated with respect by everyone you come in contact with? Is the ambulatory surgery center, from the waiting room to the clinic, to the operating rooms themselves, clean, comfortable and well lit? Don’t be afraid to trust your gut in your search for an orthopedic surgeon.
Learn More About OJRCA and Dr. Clifford — Your Orthopedic Surgeon in Tampa
For over two decades, Tampa orthopedic surgeon Dr. Clifford, or Dr. Flip to his patients and team, has been helping patients dealing with chronic joint pain get back to the people and activities they’ve been missing. No matter where you are in your treatment journey, the OJRCA team can help you develop a personalized treatment plan that values your time and aims to be as cost-effective as possible.
To learn more, contact our team today online or call us at (813) 492-4412.
