When you meet with Dr. Ward for the first time. It is helpful to know what to expect before your initial consultation.
Office Consultation:
Office locations are at the main office in Chestnut Hill or the Dedham office. The initial office visit will either be with the one of the PA’s Danielle Burdo and Ellen Busher or with Dr. Daniel M. Ward. The office visit will necessitate x-rays, which will be performed at the office, or x-rays or other imaging brought by the patient.
The initial consultation is conducted per the scheduled times. Occasionally for many reasons, there may be a wait. Thank you for understanding.
Pre-operative care
During the office visit, we will determine if surgery is necessary. After the patient decides to move ahead, the scheduling and logistics for the eventual operation will be performed.
Prescreening will be scheduled as well as a pre-operative teaching class for hip and knee replacement if desired.
During this time, the office consult and the patient reviews the information, and further questions or reviews are welcome.
Prescreening
New England Hospital Surgery:
Prescreening for surgery is a prerequisite to the procedure. For the inpatient stays at the New England Baptist Hospital, prescreening must take place at the actual hospital. The prescreening will involve an interview with one of the nurse practitioners. Through the day, blood is drawn, x-rays, and further evaluation accomplished. The appointment may include additional consults with cardiology, hematology or infectious disease.
The process is long and oftentimes frustrating; your patience is appreciated.
The day before surgery, the hospital, as well as Dr. Daniel M. Ward, will call to confirm times and answer further questions.
The day prior and the morning of the surgery, you will be instructed to bathe with ‘Hibiclens’ soap at the region of the operation.
Outpatient Centers:
North Atlantic Surgical Suites, Shields Medford Surgery Center, New England Baptist Outpatient Center in Dedham.
Operation clearance for surgery will need to be with your primary care provider’s office within 30 days of your surgery. This will include a physical exam and potentially surgical labs, EKG, and potentially a chest X-ray.
Day of the Surgery
Patient are asked to arrive at the hospital 3 hours before the surgical time. Insurance is confirmed followed by a comprehensive review of the patient’s medical condition and medications, a visit with anesthesia, and then the surgical intervention.
Patients then spend approximately two hours in the recovery room and then in the floor. Activities start as soon as the patient reaches this level.
Post Operative Information
We provide a tremendous amount of information at the time of discharge. Upon arriving home, physical therapy and infrequently, even nursing will visit the home for help with exercise, mobilization, and also answer questions. Patients will revisit with one of our PA’s in the office at four weeks for knees and six weeks for hips; for an x-ray and further recommendations.
Patients are encouraged to engage this website for further information and details. If additional questions are unanswered, please contact the office.