General

What are your business hours?

Our practice hours are from 8:30am to 5:30pm, Monday through Friday. Appointments can be made by telephoning our practice at 1300 ACTIVE – 1300 228483.

Can x-rays be done in your practice?

The Epworth and Cabrini Medical Centre house comprehensive radiology departments with facilities for: Xrays, CT scans, Ultrasound, MRI, bone scans, and interventional radiology. For Xrays 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 spine.

Will physical therapy be required after surgery?

Major surgery on a joint may take two or three hours in the operating room. Getting a full range of motion, strength and flexibility back in that joint after surgery usually takes months. That's where pre-operative exercise and education and post-operative 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.

What should I bring with me when I come for an appointment?

When you come for your appointment Remember to get the following:

• Medicare or DVA card
• Have your insurance information.
• Copies of operation records, medical records, x-rays, MRIs, CT scans and so on from prior doctor visits.
• If you have seen a physiotherapist, please bring a progress letter from the therapist.
• If you have had surgery elsewhere, please bring a copy of your operation report