1What is an orthopaedic surgeon?
An orthopaedic surgeon is a medical doctor who specialises in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical intervention of musculoskeletal conditions, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. You should see an orthopaedic surgeon if you have persistent or severe pain, stiffness, or difficulty with movement that hasn't improved with rest or non-surgical treatments.
2How do you know you need to see an orthopaedic surgeon?
Typical signs you need to visit an orthopaedic surgeon include the following:
- Pain in the joints
- Swollen or stiff joints
- Numbness in the affected joint
- Infection in close proximity to the site of injury
3What conditions does Dr Arakkal treat?
Dr Arakkal has a subspecialist orthopaedic surgery practice. He treats orthopaedic trauma, hip and knee conditions and a very limited number of foot and upper limb conditions. He does not treat spine or back conditions.
4What diagnostic tools are used to confirm the presence of an orthopaedic injury?
- X-rays
- MRI scans
- Ultrasound scans
- CT scans
5What should I bring with me to the hospital if I have been booked for orthopaedic surgery?
You should bring personal toiletries, spare clothes, and comfortable shoes or slippers. You should also bring any necessary documentation and all your chronic medications.
6When can I resume driving after orthopaedic surgery?
Arrange for someone to transport you home after your surgery, as you will be unable to drive for at least 24 hours afterward. Depending on the specifics of your operation, it might be unsafe to drive for a longer period. Please consult with our practice for more detailed guidance regarding your situation.
7Who should I contact if I have a billing query?
8How do I contact the practice if I have an emergency?
9How much does a consultation cost?
Dr Arakkal is a preferred provider for the following medical aid schemes and consultation fees will be claimed from medical aids with no co-payments:
- Discovery
- LA Health
- Multichoice
- Remedi
- Retail Essential
- SAM Medical
- TFG Health +
- Tsogo Classic
- UKZN
- Bonitas
- Fedhealth
- Polmed
- GEMS
- Momentum
For patients paying cash or on other medical aids the tariffs are as follows and will have to be paid in cash. An invoice will be provided if required to claim from medical aid.
New Patient – New Consultation R 900
Follow up consultation R 450
Follow up consultation ( post-surgery more than 4 weeks ) R 450
Follow up consultation ( post-surgery up to 4 weeks ) No Charge
The patient will remain liable should there be insufficient funds or no out-of-hospital benefit.
10How do I make an appointment?
11Is there parking available?
Yes patient parking is available
12What payment method is accepted?
Payment via credit/debit card is preferred but cash is accepted provided patients bring the exact amount as providing change may not be possible.
