For your consultation
A better conversation starts with your questions.
Bring the questions that matter to you. Add your own goals, concerns, and the activities you want to return to.
Your options
- What is causing my knee symptoms, and what are my treatment options?
- What are the reasons to consider surgery now—or to wait?
- Are you recommending total or partial knee replacement? What does “resurfacing” mean in my case?
Your reconstruction
- How will you reach the joint, and how will you reconstruct its surfaces?
- How will you choose the alignment and implant position for my knee?
- What experience do you have with the technique you recommend?
Evidence and uncertainty
- Which research applies to my situation and the technique you recommend?
- What improvements are realistic for me, and what might not improve?
- What are the alternatives, and what is still uncertain?
Risks and preparation
- Which risks are most important for me, given my health and medical history?
- What should I do before surgery, and which medications should I discuss with your team?
- Who should I contact with a concern before or after surgery?
Recovery and everyday life
- What help will I need at home, and what is the plan for rehabilitation?
- When should we discuss returning to driving, work, and the activities I enjoy?
- What symptoms should prompt a call to your team or urgent care?
Costs and follow-up
- Which surgeon, facility, anesthesia, rehabilitation, and equipment charges should I confirm?
- Who can check my coverage and estimated out-of-pocket costs?
- How will we assess my progress, and when are my follow-up visits?
Your next step.
Use this checklist during your consultation. You can also print it from your browser.
Find a surgeonExplore the visual patient guideA conversation checklist, not a diagnosis or an individualized treatment plan. For general background, read AAOS OrthoInfo: Total Knee Replacement.