Orthopedic Second Opinions in Chicago

You do not need to have surgery scheduled to ask for another assessment. You may want a second opinion if:

• You are unsure about your diagnosis or how it relates to your symptoms.
• Surgery has been recommended and you want to understand the alternatives, likely benefits and recovery.
• Pain, weakness, stiffness or instability continues despite treatment.
• Recovery after surgery has not gone as expected.
• You have received different recommendations and want help understanding them.
• You want to discuss how a treatment plan fits your work, sport or daily life.

Second opinions are available for a range of orthopedic injuries and conditions within Dr. Horner's practice, including shoulder, knee and hip problems, sports injuries and fractures.

Examples include:

• Rotator cuff tears, including a recurrent tear or concerns about a failed rotator cuff repair.
• ACL injuries, including ongoing instability or a new injury after ACL reconstruction.
• Persistent pain, stiffness or difficulty using the arm after shoulder replacement.
• Meniscus injuries, joint pain or arthritis, and questions about surgical versus nonsurgical treatment.
• Fractures and concerns about recovery after an injury or operation.

These are examples, not a complete list. If you are unsure whether your concern is a fit, contact the office before scheduling.

Pain after an operation does not, by itself, mean the surgery has failed or that another operation is needed. The assessment takes account of your recovery timeline, examination and available records.

Dr. Horner will discuss your history and goals, examine the affected area, and review the imaging and records available for your appointment. The discussion may include:

• How the diagnosis fits your symptoms and examination.
• Which surgical and nonsurgical options may be appropriate.
• The potential benefits, limitations, risks and recovery involved.
• Whether additional information or testing is needed before making a recommendation.

A second opinion may support your current plan or suggest a different approach. The goal is to help you make an informed decision about your care.

• Your actual X-ray, MRI or CT images, as well as the written reports, if available.
• Previous clinic notes and operative reports, especially if you have already had surgery.
• A list of treatments you have tried, such as therapy, injections or medications, and how you responded.
• Your current medication list and the questions you most want answered.

Ask the office how to make outside images and records available before your appointment.

These patient education resources from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons may help you prepare questions for a visit.

• Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before Surgery
• Getting the Most Out of Your Doctor's Visit