How do I make an appointment?
Please phone the rooms and talk to one of our Reception Staff on 02 6621 3114.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
- Referral letter from your GP/other Specialist
- Medicare/DVA card
- Private Health Fund card
- Workcover/Insurance Claim details (if applicable)
- XRAYS/Ultrasound/MRI Scan/CT Scan/Nerve Conduction Studies applicable to your condition
- Any related Operation Report or Physiotherapy Report
- A list of your Current Medications
How do I pay for my consultation?
It is our practice policy that payment is required on the day of consultation.
We accept cash/cheque/credit and debit cards.
Medicare online claiming is available enabling your rebate to be sent directly to your bank account.
What medications do I need to stop prior to my surgery?
If you are on Prednisone, Warfarin or any blood thinning medication you need to let Dr Pearce know at the time of your consultation so that he can put in place a medication weaning plan if required.
What should I bring with me on my day of surgery?
- XRAYS + any other relevant investigations
- Medicare/DVA card
- Private Health Fund card
- Comfortable clothing/Toiletries if you are staying in hospital after your surgery (Leave all valuables at home)
How long will I be in hospital?
Depending on the type of surgery you are having you may only be in hospital that day, or for more complicated cases for 5+ days. Everyone recovers at a different rate and has different needs.
When is my first post-operative visit?
If you have had Day Surgery your first post-operative visit will be 10-14 days after your surgery. Please phone our rooms when you get home to organize an appointment.
When should I see my Physiotherapist?
Dr Pearce will advise you, if and when you need to need commence your physiotherapy.
When can I drive?
This will vary according to the type of surgery you have had. On average it will be 6 weeks after your joint replacement until you can drive again. Please discuss this with Dr Pearce at your post-operative visit.
What should I do if I am concerned about my post-operative progress?
Contact our rooms if you experience any of the following problems:
A lot of blood is on the dressing or if the dressing becomes loose or wet.
The skin around the dressing becomes hot or looks red
You develop a fever (greater than 38 degrees Celsius) or chills
You develop excessive swelling despite using ice and elevating your limb.
A medication causes side effects
You have any other concerns not listed above.
If Dr Pearce is unavailable, please consult your G.P or attend the Emergency Department at your local Hospital.
Dental appointments and Joint Replacements
If you are planning on having any dental work done, such as a tooth extraction, book it well in advance of your surgery.
Due to the risk of infection, do not book any dental work, including routine cleaning, for several weeks after your surgery. Please arrange Antibiotics from your Dentist for any major dental work after your joint replacement.