WHAT IS HAND SURGERY?
Hand surgery is the field of medicine dedicated to the care and treatment of disease, deformity and dysfunction of the upper extremity from both the conservative (non-surgical) and surgical perspectives.
DOES LANKFORD HAND TREAT CHILDREN?
We do treat children for some conditions and this is determined on a case by case basis. If your child has an upper extremity problem please call our office and we can determine how best to proceed.
DO I NEED A REFERRAL TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT?
This is not required by our office but may be required by your insurance company. Please check with them to ensure that your visit and any subsequent treatment will be eligible for coverage.
WHAT DO I BRING FOR YOUR INITIAL CONSULTATION?
No need to bring anything but yourself. There will be basic paperwork to fill out in the office prior to your visit with the doctor. You can complete the paperwork here.
ARE MY MEDICAL RECORDS KEPT PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL?
Yes. We follow strict HIPAA (Health Information Portability and Accountability Act) compliant practices.
HOW LONG DO I NEED TIME OFF WORK AFTER THE SURGERY?
Every case is different and the recommended time off of work depends on multiple factors. This is one of the major decisions which will be determined through the course of your treatment.
WHEN CAN I RETURN TO DAILY ACTIVITIES?
This also depends on your specific situation and will be discussed in depth through the course of your treatment.
WHAT INSURANCE DOES LANKFORD HAND ACCEPT?
We accept most major insurance plans. Please call the office to confirm.
AM I ABLE TO CONTACT MY DOCTOR AFTER HOURS?
You will always be able to contact an orthopaedic hand surgeon (MD) on call after hours through our answering service at the main office number: 214.823.5351.
WILL PHYSICAL THERAPY BE REQUIRED AFTER SURGERY?
Typically hand/upper extremity surgery patients either need no therapy at all post-operatively, or they need the care of a certified hand therapist. We will discuss this issue with you on an ongoing basis throughout the course of your care.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH SURGERY?
There are risks associated with all surgery, but in general hand and upper extremity is very safe. Each procedure and patient has a different risk profile, and this will be discussed in detail pre-operatively.
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON INJURIES?
Injuries commonly treated by orthopaedic hand surgeons include fractures, tendon and nerve lacerations, joint and cartilage damage, ligament disruptions and skin /soft tissue defects.