Preparing for orthopedic surgery starts well before you enter the operating room. Knowing what to ask your surgeon at the consultation stage puts you in control of your care and reduces uncertainty on the day of your procedure.
Dr. Kevin M. Kaplan, MD, FAAOS, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with a subspecialty in sports medicine who joined Altus Medical Group in 2025, expanding the practice’s focus into full-service orthopedic care. When you meet with Dr. Kevin Kaplan in Jacksonville, FL, arriving with a prepared list of questions is one of the most practical steps you can take. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), patients who ask questions, understand their treatment, and follow their doctor’s instructions are more likely to achieve better results from orthopedic surgery.
Understanding Your Diagnosis and Surgical Options
Before going through a procedure, you need a clear picture of why surgery is being recommended.
Key questions to ask at this stage:
- Is surgery the only option, or are there non-surgical treatments still worth trying?
- What happens if I delay or decline the procedure?
- The goal of orthopedic treatment is to relieve pain and restore function. Your surgeon will consider your age, activity level, and general health and may recommend surgery only if non-surgical methods such as medication and physical therapy have not relieved your symptoms.
- Which specific technique will be used – open surgery or minimally invasive arthroscopy?
Dr. Kaplan specializes in shoulder, knee, and elbow surgery, with a focus on minimally invasive techniques and sports injury recovery. He has been trained in cutting-edge arthroscopy of the shoulder, elbow, and knee. Understanding which approach applies to your case helps you anticipate the recovery path ahead.
Questions About Surgical Risks, Recovery, and Rehabilitation
Each orthopedic surgery differs, ranging from minimally invasive procedures with same-day discharge to total joint replacements requiring hospital stays and extended rehabilitation. Asking specific recovery questions prevents surprises.
| Topic | Question to Ask |
|---|---|
| Risks and complications | What are the most common complications for this specific procedure? |
| Hospital stay | Will I go home the same day or need an overnight stay? |
| Rehabilitation | Will I need formal physical therapy, and for how long? |
| Activity restrictions | When can I return to work, driving, and sport? |
Ask your orthopedic surgeon about the most common complications their patients typically experience after the surgery you will be having and how they manage these complications in their own patients.
Getting a full range of motion, strength, and flexibility back after surgery usually takes time. Pre-operative exercise and education, along with post-operative physical therapy programs, help ensure you are physically and emotionally prepared for surgery and maximize your recovery afterward.
According to the AAOS patient safety guide, you should also confirm that your surgeon will mark the surgical site before the procedure – a standard safety step that ensures the correct body part is treated.
About Dr. Kaplan’s Experience
Dr. Kaplan is board-certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery with a subspecialty certification in orthopedic sports medicine. He is a fellow member of the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine and the Arthroscopy Association of North America. He completed a fellowship in orthopedic sports medicine at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in Los Angeles, where he assisted in the orthopedic care of the 2009 World Champion Los Angeles Lakers.
With the additions of Dr. Kaplan and other specialists, Altus has deepened its multidisciplinary model, now offering coordinated care across spine surgery, orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, and sports medicine – all under one roof at their Jacksonville location on Crown Point Court.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions does Dr. Kaplan treat surgically?
Dr. Kaplan specializes in sports medicine and the treatment of rotator cuff tears, labral tears, ACL tears, and cartilage injuries.
Should I bring imaging to my first consultation?
Yes. Diagnosing injuries begins with a thorough medical history, physical examination, and usually X-rays. Additional tests such as an MRI or CT scan may also be needed. Bringing any prior imaging saves time and helps the surgeon assess your case immediately.
Can I ask about orthobiologics as part of my treatment?
Orthobiologics are natural substances such as cells, tissue, blood components, and growth factors used to aid in the treatment of orthopedic injuries. They may be used to replace lost tissue, stimulate regeneration and healing, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve joint function. Ask whether they are appropriate for your specific diagnosis.
What should I disclose before surgery?
Be prepared to discuss your chronic medical conditions – such as diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease – and any medical complications or issues you have had with anesthesia during previous surgeries.
Arriving at your consultation with a written list of questions is one of the simplest ways to get more from your appointment. The more clearly you communicate your goals and concerns, the better your surgeon can tailor a plan that fits your situation. To learn more about the providers and services available, visit Altus Medical Group at their Jacksonville location on Crown Point Court.
