How to Choose the Right Orthopedic Surgeon

Content medically reviewed by Dr. Bradley Kuzel, orthopedic surgeon

You’ve been experiencing aches and pains for a while now. At your last appointment, your primary care provider suggested that you see an orthopedic surgeon. Finding the right one for your specific needs is the first step.

While it might sound like “orthopedic surgeon” refers to a single type of provider, there’s actually a wide range of orthopedic providers with different specialties.

“Many orthopedic surgeons specialize in some way, whether that’s seeing pediatric patients or focusing on treating conditions that affect certain body parts, such as the foot and ankle,” said Dr. Bradley Kuzel, an orthopedic surgeon at Essentia Health.

What an Orthopedic Surgeon Does

An orthopedic surgeon is a specialist who treats conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system contains your muscles, bones and the surrounding tissues. An orthopedic surgeon can diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.

Orthopedic surgeons are skilled in performing orthopedic surgeries to address musculoskeletal issues, but they also provide nonsurgical treatment options. Many orthopedic conditions can be managed without surgery, and orthopedic surgeons play an essential role in guiding patients toward the most appropriate care. They often initiate treatment plans, whether surgical or nonsurgical, and ensure patients receive the specialized care they need to achieve the best possible outcome. 

Finding the Right Provider

If your primary care provider suggests you see an orthopedic surgeon, they may refer you to a specific provider or a medical practice based on the symptoms you’re experiencing or your diagnosis.

That referral (or recommendation) can help you narrow down your search. Use the following steps to find an orthopedic surgeon who works for you.

Check Your Insurance Network

If you’re covered by a health insurance plan, use resources on their website or call the company to determine what orthopedic surgeons are considered “in network.” That’s an important designation, because it usually means it will be less expensive for you.

Review the Surgeons’ Subspecialties

Once you know who’s in network, look for information about those providers and their specific specialties. If you’re having a problem with your knee, for example, you need an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in joint replacement.

Verify the Surgeons’ Credentials

It’s OK for you to ask the provider questions about how many times they have done this surgery, their success rate, how often complications occur, and what kinds of complications can occur.

Orthopedic surgeons may be board-certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery or by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. You may also see mentions of other professional associations, such as membership in the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Consider Other Criteria

You may also want to consider other factors that will make you comfortable with an orthopedic surgeon. This may include –

• Expertise in a specific procedure
• Hospital affiliation
• Office location
• Years of practice

Hospital affiliation is an important consideration. Dig into the details when it comes to where an orthopedic surgeon performs surgical procedures and what’s offered through that hospital or health system. Some considerations might include whether the hospital offers other services you need in addition to the basics of an operating room, such as sports medicine, physical therapy, and access to advanced surgical technology like robotic surgery. Essentia Health offers all these services in several locations.

The First Appointment: Finding the Right Fit

Finding the right medical provider can require a bit of trial and error. Your first appointment with a new medical provider is an opportunity to learn more about their approach to care and determine if they’re the right fit for you. During your initial visit with a prospective orthopedic surgeon, be sure to ask questions and share any concerns.

“You should feel like you can communicate openly with your surgeon and that your surgeon makes an effort to understand your concerns and how your issues impact your daily life,” Dr. Kuzel said. “By taking the time to truly understand their patients and their unique situations, surgeons can build a foundation of trust, which plays a crucial role in the healing process.”

Key Takeaways

If you’re experiencing symptoms related to your musculoskeletal system, you may benefit from seeing an orthopedic surgeon. Investing some time into finding the right surgeon can make the process as easy and comfortable for you as possible.

You want an orthopedic surgeon who meets your needs. To find one, consider –

1. Recommendations from your primary care provider
2. Your insurance network
3. The surgeon’s specialty
4. The surgeon’s credentials
5. Other factors, including hospital affiliation

Start your search for an orthopedic surgeon at Essentia Health. Call 844-663-1068 or schedule an appointment online.