Steps to take when Seeking out a Shoulder Surgeon

Seeking out a shoulder surgeon can be an overwhelming experience. The following questions can serve as a guide to narrow down your options, so your mind can be at peace as you complete other formalities for the surgery.

1. Is your surgeon a shoulder specialist?

An orthopedic surgeon will have generalized training in performing surgeries on different parts of the body. On the other hand, an orthopedic shoulder specialist will complete advanced fellowship training after residency and limit practice to the area of specialization such as the shoulder, knee, or hip.

2. How many times has your surgeon performed the exact shoulder surgery you are about to undergo?

Research studies have demonstrated a clear correlation between volume and outcomes. Likelihood of success will be very high if your surgeon has performed a larger number of surgeries.

3. What is your surgeon's personal complication rate?

Complication rates for surgery vary from procedure to procedure and between surgeons as well. Dr. Denard always tracks outcomes, monitoring and treating complications to continually improve results for all his patients.

4. What do other patients say?

A good way to access this information is to visit the surgeon's page to read patient reviews about their surgical experiences. Other information such as bedside manner and follow-up care may also be available that might help you make up your mind about choosing a surgeon.

5. Does the surgeon accept your insurance?

This information may be available on your insurance company's website, or you could just ask the surgeon about it. Dr. Denard additionally provides clear details regarding costs of procedures so there are no hidden and unexpected charges.

6. Does the surgeon provide care for out-of-town patients?

Dr. Denard routinely treats patients from all over the US and Canada. Out-of-town patients can access concierge care that includes direct access to Dr. Denard and his staff, travel information, where to stay, things to do during your stay, and virtual postoperative visits.

Dr. Patrick Denard has been voted one of the top 20 Shoulder Surgeons in North America and is the most widely published shoulder specialist in Oregon. Dr. Denard has advanced arthroscopy training and is able to perform the vast majority of shoulder procedures in a minimally invasive fashion, including all types of rotator cuff repairs and instability repair. These techniques allow him to repair tears that some consider "irreparable."