1815 S. Clinton Ave Suite 405
Rochester, NY 14618
NOTICE:
Our Practice has MOVED
Our new location is:
Suite 405
1815 South Clinton Ave
Rochester, NY, 14618.
The NEW phone number is 585-565-3500
Our Practice has MOVED
Our new location is:
Suite 405
1815 South Clinton Ave
Rochester, NY, 14618.
The NEW phone number is 585-565-3500
For appointments call
585.565.3500
Fax Number:
585.434.4081
585.565.3500
Fax Number:
585.434.4081
The Wizard of Oz--NO
May 23rd, 2009
I have a beloved patient from Pittsburgh who recently visited me to have thumb basal joint surgery. After fixing her wrist around 10 years ago while I was on the faculty at the University of Pittsburgh, she affectionately referred to me as the "Magician"---and still does. Ofcourse, coming all the way up to Rochester for treatment was about trust, comfort level and confidence--not some kind of special "magic" that I am capable of!!
Magician, No.
Authentic, honest, and accountable, Orthopaedic surgeon, Yes.
At least I try every minute of every day.
Although seeing a happy patient after making the right diagnosis, gaining their trust, and performing an excellent surgery is "magical"--- the real litmus test of a successful result is their satisfaction.
Dr. Shaw Wilgus, from Baltimore, has referred to certain procedures/surgical strategies as "Surgical Gymnastics"-----meaning that there may be too complex an element to the plan, which might diminish the liklihood of success. Indeed, a well thought out treatment strategy should be well conceived based on "best practice" and the "evidence base".
And, it should be a plan that you (the patient)understand, and have had a chance to investigate and question, if you like-----even challenge! Afterall, you are the "customer". This type of dialogue may be tough to complete in the office, at times, however, which is exactly why I give every patient my email, via my website.
This brings me to this blog's title. I saw a patient this week for a 2nd opinion who had seen his Shoulder surgeon once in the office after multiple dislocations. He was told that he might need a complex bone-grafting procedure of the glenoid, but that he, (the doctor), was not entirely certain. His plan was to present the case at an upcoming conference to solicit feedback. There was no return phone call or feedback, however. Rather, his secretary called to schedule a date for surgery. And, by the way, the doctor was on vacation not at a conference.
On that day, the patient did not see the surgeon before or after the surgery. Postoperatively he has seen the Physician's Assistant mostly.
In light of this scenario, whether completey accurate or perceived, it's no surprise that he is not entirely happy. What I found after my evaluation was that the surgery had been performed well, and was well-conceived. But, the absence of pre- and postoperative dialogue left tremendous doubt in the patient's mind as to how he is doing----indeed, he is having a slow recovery.
He, the patient, referred to his Surgeon as the "Wizard of Oz".
This really resonated with me, particularly if you remember the scene from the movie when the man behind the drapery is revealed. A fraud----no! But certainly not what he appeared to be.
My message this week is "Caveat Emptor". The days of having "blind" respect for your physician should be over, particularly if you have one who overly leverages their "support"--whether it is PA's, residents in training, or other staff. Make certain you have dialogue.
Surgical Gymnast--NO. Wizard of Oz--NO.
Magician--although I like the complement, Linda--NO!
*POST EDITED BY DR. TOMAINO.
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