Second Opinion

Why people seek an orthopedic second opinion

Orthopedic decisions are rarely trivial. An operation on a hip, knee or shoulder is a significant undertaking, and so is deciding not to have one. It is entirely reasonable to want another surgeon to look at the same imaging and history and say what they make of it. Seeking a second opinion is not a criticism of the first physician, and most surgeons regard it as a normal part of a considered decision.

People commonly ask for one when surgery has been recommended and they want to understand whether it is necessary now, when they have been told nothing more can be done, when different physicians have offered different explanations, or when a problem has persisted without a clear diagnosis. Second opinions are also often sought about revision surgery, where a previous hip or knee replacement is causing trouble.

Situations that often prompt a second opinion

• Surgery has been recommended and you want to confirm it is the right step, and the right timing
• Persistent joint pain without a diagnosis that explains it
• Pain, instability or loss of function after a previous operation or joint replacement
• A fracture that has not healed or has healed in a poor position
• Conflicting advice from different physicians
• A complex or unusual problem, including limb deformity and reconstruction

What Dr. Wolfson reviews

A second opinion consultation is built around your records as much as your symptoms. Dr. Wolfson will go through the history of the problem, including what has already been tried, and examine the affected area. He will review your imaging directly rather than relying only on the written reports, and where you have had previous surgery he will look at the operative notes and any implant records. Laboratory results, therapy notes and the recommendations you have already been given are all part of the picture.

The aim is to give you a clear account of what he believes is going on, whether he agrees with the assessment you have been given, and what the reasonable options are, including continuing with non-surgical care. If he agrees with the plan you already have, he will say so plainly. Bringing your imaging or arranging for it to be sent ahead of the appointment makes the visit considerably more productive.

For patients outside the Bay Area

Dr. Wolfson sees patients who travel from elsewhere in the nation and from abroad, particularly for revision and complex reconstruction problems. If you live outside the San Francisco Bay Area, you can request a complimentary phone consultation so that your case can be assessed before you make travel plans, through the free consultation page or by calling the office. A telemedicine visit is another way to review your records by video without travelling.

What to expect when you consult Dr. Wolfson

Dr. Wolfson, MD, FRCSC, FACS, is board certified in the United States and Canada, and he provides second opinions to patients with challenging conditions, including those who require revision of hip or knee replacements. He asks that patients be partners in their own treatment, which means explaining the reasoning rather than issuing a recommendation. What you do with the opinion is your decision.

This page provides general information about orthopedic second opinions and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for examination, imaging and diagnosis by a qualified physician. Every case is different and requires individual evaluation. If you have severe pain, an obvious deformity, loss of function, fever, or an injury from a significant accident, seek medical care promptly.

Contact Dr. Wolfson if you would like to setup an appointment. If you are a new patient, please book all in-person appointments with Dr. Wolfson via telephone.

If you live outside of the San Francisco Bay Area, you can request a complimentary phone consultation with Dr. Wolfson to assess your case. Please call or e-mail us to set up your complimentary consultation.

Call: (415) 221-4400

E-mail: [email protected]