Patient Information

What should I expect from my consultation?

At the time of consultation, Dr. Poletti will obtain a complete history of your problems and perform a clinical examination. In many cases, this will be sufficient to make a diagnosis. In some cases, however, further tests will be necessary to reach a definitive diagnosis, such as X-rays, scans, MRIs, CT scans, or blood tests.

Once a definitive diagnosis is established, treatment options for your problem will be presented to you. In most cases, there are surgical and non-surgical treatment options, each with advantages and disadvantages that Dr. Poletti will explain.

To ensure you feel comfortable with your decision, you will be given time to weigh all options and ask questions. You will be provided with written information detailing the consultation and treatment options.

What should I bring to my appointment?

If you have undergone any previous interventions or assessments on your knee, bringing these details to your appointment may be helpful.

If you have had any recent imaging (within the last 2 years) of the affected knee, such as an X-ray, CT scan or MRI, please bring the disc along with any reports you may have. If the x-rays are old or if you have not had a “weight bearing” x-ray (even if you have already had an MRI), you will need to have the x-ray done or repeated at your appointment.

For a proper examination of your knee, your leg will need to be exposed up to mid-thigh, so it is recommended that you wear appropriate clothing or a pair of shorts.

Medical Insurance

If you are using private medical insurance to cover your expenses, inform the company of your intentions (for both consultations and procedures) and obtain their authorisation. The amount reimbursed varies between companies and individual policies, so it is important to obtain authorisation to ensure that no outstanding payments remain.

If you are self-funding your treatment, you will be responsible for all costs related to consultations, investigations and treatment. It is possible to purchase “all-inclusive packages” for surgical procedures at private hospitals, which cover the costs of the surgeon, anaesthetist and hospital. Follow-up appointments are often included in this fee, but they do not cover the costs of further interventions if complications arise.