Consulting Dr. Shih: Joint Replacement Surgery and Special Clinics - Orthopedics

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Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your questions regarding joint replacement surgery and the possibility of consulting with Dr. Shih. I understand that your father's health condition makes long-distance travel challenging, and I appreciate your proactive approach in seeking the best care for him.

To address your first question, whether Dr. Shih has special clinics in the northern region, it is essential to check directly with the hospital or clinic where he practices. Many orthopedic surgeons do have satellite clinics or special consultation days in various locations to accommodate patients who may have difficulty traveling long distances. If Dr. Shih does not have a clinic in the northern area, it may be worth discussing telemedicine options, where initial consultations can be conducted virtually, allowing for a more convenient discussion of your father's condition without the need for travel.

Regarding the duration of the surgery, joint replacement surgeries typically take between one to three hours, depending on the complexity of the case and the specific joint being replaced (e.g., knee, hip). The surgeon will assess the individual situation and provide a more accurate estimate during the pre-operative consultation.
As for whether the surgery is minimally invasive, it depends on the specific technique used by the surgeon. Traditional joint replacement surgeries involve larger incisions, while minimally invasive techniques utilize smaller incisions, which can lead to reduced recovery times and less postoperative pain. However, not all patients are candidates for minimally invasive surgery, and the decision will be based on your father's specific medical condition, the type of joint replacement required, and the surgeon's expertise.

The size of the incision also varies based on the surgical approach. For traditional knee or hip replacements, the incision may be around 8 to 12 inches long, while minimally invasive techniques may result in incisions that are 3 to 5 inches long. Smaller incisions can lead to less trauma to the surrounding tissues, which may facilitate a quicker recovery.

In summary, I recommend contacting Dr. Shih's office directly to inquire about the availability of special clinics in the northern region and to discuss the possibility of a virtual consultation. Additionally, during the pre-operative visit, you can ask about the expected duration of the surgery, the surgical approach (minimally invasive or traditional), and the anticipated size of the incision.
Thank you for your thoughtful questions, and I wish you and your father the best as you navigate this process. Please feel free to reach out if you have any further inquiries or need assistance.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams