Question 1

My doctor said I need surgery for a non-union scaphoid fracture but quoted around 70-80k which is way beyond my budget. Are there any other treatment options or ways to reduce the cost? This seems really expensive for me to handle right now.

Accepted Answer

Scaphoid surgery is costly due to implant needs. Discuss subsidized options or government hospitals for affordable care if budget is limited.

Question 2

I've been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome in my right hand based on my NCSEPS EMG report showing prolonged distal latency and reduced AMP and NCV in the median nerve studies. Two doctors an orthopedic surgeon and a neuropathy surgeon both recommended carpal tunnel release surgery. Who is better suited to perform this surgery, an orthopedic doctor or a neurologist surgeon? Also, between microscopic and endoscopic surgery, which one has better success rates for healing?

Accepted Answer

Both orthopedic and neurological surgeons are qualified to perform carpal tunnel release surgery, and there isn't a clear consensus on which is "better." The choice often comes down to surgeon preference and experience. Endoscopic and microscopic techniques both offer good success rates, with endoscopic surgery potentially leading to faster recovery and less postoperative pain for some patients

Question 3

I've been having some problems with my right leg for the past two months. I had a bad fall down the stairs, and my whole body weight landed on that leg, causing it to twist. I initially took some medications, and it felt better for a while, but now the pain is back. It mostly shows up when I walk, right below the knee, and sometimes affects the back of my ankle and knee. Occasionally, it even moves to my calf or thigh muscles. I'm feeling like my leg is weaker and stiffer, and I can't exert full pressure, which is making walking pretty tough. I also tried physiotherapy for a week, but it didn't seem to offer much relief. What would you suggest I do now? Would love some advice!

Accepted Answer

You can apply a topical pain relief gel like diclofenac (e.g., Voltaren Gel) to the affected areas to help with localized pain. In terms of improving strength and flexibility, you can try doing gentle stretching exercises for your calf muscles, thigh muscles, and ankle. Physical therapy exercises focusing on strengthening the muscles around the knee and ankle can also be beneficial. Make sure to do these exercises under the guidance of a physiotherapist to prevent further injury. If the pain persists or worsens despite these measures, it would be advisable to follow up with an orthopedic specialist for further evaluation and possibly imaging studies like an MRI to assess the extent of the injury. They can provide a more targeted treatment plan tailored to your specific condition

my 14 year old daughter has a clavicle fracture - is the sling and brace from the doctor enough or will she need surgery for proper healing

For most clavicle fractures in kids, a sling is sufficient; surgery is rare unless displaced or overlapping significantly.

More Orthopaedics Health Queries

My doctor said I need surgery for a non-union scaphoid fracture but quoted around 70-80k which is way beyond my budget. Are there any other treatment options or ways to reduce the cost? This seems really expensive for me to handle right now.

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