FAQs

  • What are Murdoch Orthopaedic Clinic’s opening hours?

    Our opening hours are from 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday. The clinic is not open on public holidays.

  • How do I make an appointment?

    You can make an appointment to see any of our surgeons either by calling the Clinic or calling a surgeon’s secretary directly. Visit the Contact Us page for all the relevant phone numbers.

  • How do I choose which Surgeon to go to?

    This is completely your preference, however you can browse our Surgeons’ profiles to gain a better understanding of who specialises in what areas of the body.

  • How long can I expect the consultation with my Surgeon to take?

    Fifteen to twenty minutes depending on the surgeon and the injury.

  • Do I need a referral to see a Surgeon at Murdoch Orthopaedic Clinic?

    Yes, you will need a referral from a General Practitioner or Sports Medicine Physician.

  • Are my consultations covered by medicare and/or private health insurance?

    Yes, a portion of your consult will be covered by Medicare, however you will need to check your level of health cover with your health insurer.

  • What do I need to bring to my appointment?

    Please remember to bring the following:

    • Your referral
    • Your insurance information
    • Copies of operation records, medical records, x-rays, MRIs, blood results and CT scans from prior doctor visits
    • If you have seen a physiotherapist, please bring a progress letter
    • If you have had surgery elsewhere, please bring a copy of your operation report
  • Can x-rays be done at your clinic?

    Not at our clinic, however St John of God Hospital houses a comprehensive Radiology Department, which is very close to our clinic. The Radiology department has facilities for: x-rays, CT scans, ultrasound, MRI, bone scans and interventional radiology. For x-rays a booking is not usually required, whilst for other procedures, appointments can be booked by your surgeon at the time of your consultation.

  • What is Osteoarthritis?

    Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is caused by the breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage is the tough elastic material that covers and protects the ends of bones. Bits of cartilage may break off and cause pain and swelling in the joint between bones. This pain and swelling is called inflammation. Over time the cartilage may wear away entirely, and the bones will rub together. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint but usually affects hips, knees, hands and the spine.

  • How long will I be in hospital for?

    This will depend on the type of surgery you’ve had. Typically major joint surgery requires you to stay in hospital for approximately four to five days.

  • Do I need a separate appointment with an Anaesthetist?

    This will depend on your Anaesthetist. Some Anaesthetists will see you prior to the day and others will see you on the day of your surgery. You will be informed by your surgeon at your consultation.

  • How long does major surgery take?

    Major surgery on a joint may take two or three hours in the operating room depending on the type of surgery you need.

  • How long before I am back to ‘normal’ health?

    Major joint surgery will take about six to twelve months before you feel back to ‘normal’ health. However, this varies greatly depending on the type of surgery you have, and also your level of health and fitness prior to the surgery.

  • Will I need physiotherapy after my surgery?

    Your surgeon will guide you on what post-rehabilitation you will need. Getting a full range of motion, strength and flexibility back in that joint after surgery usually takes months. That’s where preoperative exercise and education, and postoperative physiotherapy programs come in, to ensure you’re physically and emotionally prepared for surgery, and to maximise your recovery after surgery. Together, such programs are among the most important determinants in the success of your surgery.

  • Do I have to pay my account to Murdoch Orthopaedic Clinic on the day?

    Yes. Please settle your account after your consultation with one of our friendly staff.