Denton County Living Well Magazine January/February 2016 | Page 17

Q:

What other factors should a
patient consider before delaying an
elective, orthopedic surgery?

A: Heier: While many surgeries are ideally suited to be

performed at the end of the calendar year, there are many
factors to consider before holding off until the Holiday
season. Patients need to allow for plenty of time to have the
surgery, participate in therapy and recover fully. Should a
complication arise, there will be plenty of time to address this
without the worry of further financial constraints and worrying
about the start of a New Year and new deductible. Even
though deductibles may be met by the end of the year, many
people will have their deductibles reset January 1st. This
means physical therapy, medicines, x-rays and MRI’s, durable
medical equipment (braces and boots) and other similar
items may not be covered under the surgery deductible.

A: Goodhart:

In those cases where permanent
damage is unlikely to occur, waiting until
the deductible is more complete and then
having the surgery performed is certainly
acceptable. Just keep in mind that should
more therapy then expected or should a
complication arise having met your deductible
early will pay off mentally and physically.

Q:

What steps would you suggest a patient
take before scheduling an elective surgery?

A: Heier: Talk to your physician and family to
determine the pros and cons of having surgery
at the end of the year. Check with your doctor’s
office and insurance company to see about
possible medical expenses after the New Year.

Y

our musculoskeletal system
and joints are complex. When
you’re in pain, your injuries
and conditions affect your
life in some way, guaranteed. At OrthoTexas, our philosophy is simple;
organize one of the largest groups of
board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic physicians in Texas, provide
the latest technology and imaging,
build nine convenient locations, complete with in-house physical therapy,
and provide on-site surgical centers.
We are the most complete private,
physician-owned orthopedic group in
North Texas. We specialize in complete orthopedic care, surgery, and
non-surgical procedures for the total
body. Referrals are not required and
make as easy as possible to see our

and reconstruction of the shoulder
and knee specializing in use of the
arthroscope, as well as general Orthopedic Surgery.

Keith A. Heier, MD
physicians and physical therapist. Visit us online to learn more about our
physicians, and book an appointment
online at www.orthotexas.com.

Craig W. Goodhart, MD
Dr. Goodhart is certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons.
His current practice includes Sports
Medicine, complex joint replacement

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Dr. Heier is an Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in surgery and
reconstruction of the foot and ankle due to trauma and sports related injuries. He performs complex
reconstructions, including fusions,
total ankle replacements, and arthroscopy. Dr. Heier is one of few
surgeons across the country board
certified in Orthopedic Surgery,
fellowship trained in Foot and Ankle Surgery, and subspecialty certified in Sports Medicine.

DENTON COUNTY Living Well Magazine | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

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