Contact Dr. Michael Swank
Contact Dr. Michael Swank

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General

Simply call us at (513) 530-3027 during our working hours or swankteam@beaconortho.com.

Most medical specialists will accept only referred patients. This is mainly to try to ensure that the specialist you are seeing is appropriate for you and your condition. Check with your insurance company to see if a referral is necessary.

For your initial consultation, you will need to bring a referral letter from your physician if necessary.

Here is check list for your initial consultation

  • Driver’s License or a valid ID
  • Insurance information
  • Referral Letter (if required)
  • Reports, X-rays, MRI’s, CT scans etc. and any other relevant information
  • List of medications (if any)

We encourage you to come to your initial consultation with a written list of questions to ensure you don’t forget to ask them when you are seeing the doctor.

Your medical file is handled with the utmost respect for your privacy. Our staff is bound by strict confidentiality requirements as a condition of employment regarding your medical records. We will not release the contents of your medical file without your consent.

The post-operative recovery period varies based on the surgery. Generally, it is recommended patients take two weeks off work to recover from any surgery and to resume light duty following resumption of work. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions to follow for a successful recovery.

You should wait at least one week before driving after surgery. The effects of anaesthetic and surgery can affect judgment and reflexes during the first week following your surgery. Your surgeon will provide more specifics for your situation.

Your doctor will instruct you about post-treatment exercises – the type and the duration to be followed. You may be referred to a physical therapist to help with strengthening and range of motion exercises following surgery.

Email Swankteam@beaconortho.com and we will get back to you as soon as possible during business hours. Feel free to email pictures, questions or comments.

Medical

The non-surgical treatment options include rest, medications including analgesics and antibiotics, injections, and physical/occupational therapy.

Getting full range of motion, strength, and flexibility back after surgery usually takes time. That is where pre-operative exercise, education, and post-operative physical therapy programs come in – to ensure you are physically and emotionally prepared for surgery and to maximize your recovery after surgery.

As with any surgery, risks include reactions to anesthesia, bleeding, infection, stiffness and nerve damage. Your doctor will discuss the risks associated with your specific procedure.

This varies depending on the type of procedure undergone, and can range from a few days to a few months. Return to all activities, sports and exercise can take up to four to six months. Your doctor will advise you depending on your health condition.

Some complications of not undergoing an orthopaedic surgery for your condition include pain, loss of joint motion, joint weakness, numbness and an early onset of arthritis.

The most common orthopaedic injuries are sprains and strains, fractures, and dislocations. Injuries can occur when playing indoor or outdoor sports or while exercising. Sports injuries can result from accidents, inadequate training, improper use of protective devices, or insufficient stretching or warm-up exercises.

Outpatient Hip & Knee Replacement Surgery

Total hip and knee replacement surgeries in the United States have high success rates. Studies indicate that approximately 90% to 95% of patients experience significant pain relief and improved function following total hip replacement surgery. Similarly, total knee replacement surgeries have a success rate between 90% and 98%. These procedures are considered among the safest and most reliable treatments in medicine.

Candidates typically have severe arthritis or joint damage that causes persistent pain, stiffness, or limited mobility, and non-surgical treatments do not provide adequate relief.

Risks include infection, blood clots, implant loosening or failure, nerve damage, and anesthesia-related complications. These risks are rare and often manageable with proper care.

Hip and knee replacements are anticipated to last 15 to 20 years. Factors such as body weight, activity level, and age can influence the longevity of the implant.

Hip and knee replacements can be performed under regional anesthesia, such as spinal or epidural anesthesia, or general anesthesia. The choice depends on various factors, including patient health and surgeon preference.

There is less risk of blood clots and hospital acquired infection as patients are discharged on the same day as the procedure and encouraged to be weight bearing on their new joint as soon as possible.

Recovery involves physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. Patients are encouraged to move their new joint soon after surgery to prevent stiffness. The rehabilitation process varies but often includes exercises and gradual return to daily activities.

Yes, assistance is typically needed until you can manage daily activities safely and independently. This includes tasks like walking, navigating stairs, personal hygiene, cooking, and light cleaning.

  • Follow your surgeon’s pre-surgery instructions, such as stopping certain medications.
  • Lose excess weight if needed.
  • Stop smoking to improve healing.
  • Arrange for help at home during recovery.

Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are encouraged. High-impact activities like running or jumping should be avoided to extend the life of the implant.

These FAQs provide a general overview, but individual experiences may vary. It’s essential to consult with Dr. Swank for information tailored to your specific situation.

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