Initial Consultation & Diagnosis

Your pathway toward your treatment goals begins with an initial consultation with Dr Eardley-Harris. During your appointment he will take a detailed history and perform an examination of your condition or injury, while also reviewing any previously completed imaging.

In some cases, a diagnosis and detailed treatment plan can be immediately arranged, but it is possible that further imaging is first required. Throughout your treatment, Dr Eardley-Harris will only require imaging when absolutely necessary - either to diagnose or change management of your condition or injury, or to confirm your progress.

After Dr Eardley-Harris provides you with your diagnosis, he will walk you through a detailed treatment plan, which may require you to undergo surgery. Together, you will discuss & decide on the best path forward for you and your recovery.
What to bring:

Before your first consultation, it is important that you prepare the following so Dr Eardley-Harris can tailor his advice to your unique situation:

  • Initial health questionnaire as provided upon booking
  • Referral from your GP or other doctor
  • Medicare card/DVA card if relevant
  • Private health insurance details
  • Previously completed imaging (X-ray, MRI, CT, ultrasound) - you can bring copies or inform our team prior to your appointment on where they were performed
  • Loose clothing to allow access for examination

It can be useful to have another set of ears, so Dr Eardley-Harris welcomes bringing a support person to your appointment if needed.

Your Individualised Treatment Plan

Better outcomes through expert Orthopaedic care are often achieved in collaboration with a team of professionals, all working together to provide you with an individualised treatment plan. While Dr Eardley-Harris might coordinate your care, he may refer you to a trusted, hand-selected colleague, who is better equipped in some aspect relevant to your unique situation, to contribute to finding the best outcome for your condition or injury.

This may include your surgeon, their assistant surgeon, Anaesthetist, your GP, pain specialist, nursing staff, physiotherapist, radiographers, psychologist, physician or another surgeon. Each medical professional has their own area of expertise, but works collectively, taking a specific role to get you to your recovery goal.

Though not all conditions require surgery, if surgical treatment is being considered, Dr Eardley-Harris may book a separate appointment to ensure you understand the procedure. During this time, you’ll discuss the risks & benefits, any potential complications or possible alternative treatments, with plenty of time to ask Dr Eardley-Harris any questions you may have.

Before your surgery, our team will inform you of the costs of your intended procedure. You will have the necessary transparent & comprehensive information to provide clear and informed financial and surgical consent.

Comprehensive Surgical Care

01
Decision for Surgery
Together we have made the decision that surgery is the best pathway forward. Our team will discuss with you the timing and the location of your surgery, including the expected length of stay in hospital.
02
Personalised Surgical Planning
Dr Eardley-Harris will sit down and plan your specific surgery to best achieve your goals. This may involve further tests needed for the planning, as well as any unique circumstances to your condition or injury.
03
Preparation
Prior to surgery, you will be given specific instructions to be ready for the operation. This may include certain tests, medication management, and pre-surgery & aftercare information.
04
Day of Surgery
On the day of surgery, Dr Eardley-Harris will visit you in the pre-operative room, and answer any other questions that you have, and ensure that you are ready for your procedure. During your surgery, our team will ensure you are comfortable and well-informed.
05
Recovery
Following surgery you will enter the recovery room, with specialised nursing care. Here, you and your family will be informed of the findings, allowing you to be confident in the outcome. You will follow your pre-planned aftercare procedures to allow your body to recover.
Questions
Choosing surgery is a significant decision that often involves careful consideration of various factors. If you have any questions throughout your process, feel free to ask Dr Eardley-Harris' team for further clarity.

Recovery & Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation
Most patients are able to return to their own home following surgery but transfer to a rehabilitation facility may be suggested. A physiotherapist, who we can recommend if needed, will usually assess and advise you throughout your recovery.
Wound Care & Progress
A post-operative appointment will be booked for around 10-18 days following your surgery to look at the surgical site, discuss your procedure and plan your recovery.
Long Term Care
As recovery can be a long process, Dr Eardley-Harris tracks your progression to ensure you are reaching and maintaining your goals. As both a paediatric and adult surgeon, Dr Eardley-Harris can coordinate care for patients of any age, especially for children who require following-up as they grow.

Let's discuss your personalised treatment plan

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