Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Orthopedic Surgeon Before Surgery

By Dr. William Sterett, Orthopedic Surgeon at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery

When you’re facing an orthopedic surgery, whether it’s for your knee, shoulder, or another joint, it’s natural to feel both hopeful and a little overwhelmed. Knowing the right questions to ask your surgeon can help you feel informed, confident, and prepared for the road ahead.

As Dr. William Sterett, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery, explains:

“Patients do better when they’re active participants in their care. Asking thoughtful questions isn’t just encouraged, it’s essential.”

Here are the top 10 questions to bring to your appointment.

1. What exactly is my diagnosis?

Start by making sure you understand what’s going on inside your joint. Ask your surgeon to explain your condition in plain language, and don’t hesitate to request images or diagrams.

2. Are there non-surgical options?

Not every condition requires surgery right away. As Dr. Sterett emphasizes, “Surgery is one tool, but it’s not always the first tool. We often explore physical therapy, bracing, injections, or activity modifications before the operating room becomes necessary.”

3. Why is surgery the best option for me?

Every patient is unique. This question helps you understand why surgery is being recommended in your case and what the expected benefits are.

4. What type of procedure do you recommend?

There are often different approaches to the same problem. For example, minimally invasive arthroscopy versus a more traditional open procedure.

5. What are the risks and potential complications?

All surgeries carry some risk, from infection to stiffness to blood clots. Understanding these risks allows you to weigh them against the potential rewards.

6. What results can I realistically expect?

Ask about success rates, recovery timelines, and what “return to normal” looks like for someone with your condition. “Setting realistic expectations is one of the most important parts of my job,” says Dr. Sterett. “I want patients to know what recovery really looks like, so they’re prepared both physically and mentally.”

7. What will recovery and rehabilitation involve?

Postoperative care is just as important as the surgery itself. Find out how long you’ll be on crutches, when you can return to work, and what kind of physical therapy will be needed.

8. How many times have you performed this procedure?

Experience matters. Don’t be shy about asking your surgeon how often they’ve performed the surgery you need.

9. What is the long-term outlook?

Will you be able to ski, hike, or play your favorite sport again? Will you need additional surgeries later in life? These are crucial questions, especially for active patients.

10. What can I do to optimize my outcome?

This might include prehab exercises, nutritional support, or even simple lifestyle changes. According to Dr. Sterett, “The patients who do best are the ones who prepare like athletes. They go into surgery strong, and they commit to their recovery with the same dedication.”

Taking the Next Step

Surgery is a partnership between you and your surgeon. The more you understand about the process, the better your outcome is likely to be.

If you’re considering orthopedic surgery and want clear answers to these questions—and any others you may have, schedule a consultation with Dr. William Sterett and the team at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery. Together, you’ll build a plan that gets you back to the activities you love.