Prepare for Your Visit
How to prepare for your first visit with Dr. Gadkari, what to bring, what happens during the consultation, and how to get your home ready if surgery is planned.
Before Your Visit
A little preparation helps you get the most from your consultation. Many people feel nervous before seeing a surgeon; knowing what to expect makes it easier.
Book Your Appointment
Message the clinic on WhatsApp, call, or use the online form. Tell them briefly what the problem is.
Gather Your Reports
Collect all previous X-rays, MRI or CT scans, and reports, including images on CDs or your phone.
List Your Medicines
Write down everything you take, including blood thinners, diabetes and blood pressure medicines, and any allergies.
Note Your Questions
Write down what you want to ask, so nothing is forgotten on the day.
Plan the Journey
Check the location and timings, and bring a family member if you would like support.
What to Bring
- All previous X-rays, scans and reports, even old ones
- A list of your current medicines and allergies
- Notes or letters from other doctors you have seen about this problem
- ID, and your health insurance details if treatment may be needed
- Comfortable clothing that makes it easy to examine the painful joint, such as loose trousers for a knee
- Your glasses or hearing aid, if you use them
During Your Consultation
Dr. Gadkari will ask how the problem started, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your daily life, work and sleep. He will examine the joint, look at your X-rays and scans with you, and explain what he thinks is wrong in plain words.
He will then talk through the options, starting with the simplest treatment that is likely to work. If you need more tests, such as an X-ray or MRI scan, he will explain why. You are welcome to ask questions at any point, and to bring a family member into the room.
Questions You Might Ask
- What exactly is wrong, and can you show me on the X-ray?
- What happens if I wait?
- Which treatments could help without surgery?
- If I need an operation, what does recovery involve?
- When should I come back?
After Your Visit
You will leave with a clear plan, whether that is exercises, medicines, a brace, further tests or a follow-up visit. If surgery is planned, the clinic will explain the next steps, including fitness checks and insurance approval.
If Surgery Is Planned: Getting Your Home Ready
A few changes before an operation on the hip, knee or ankle make the first weeks at home much safer:
- A firm chair with arms, at a height where your hips stay above your knees
- A western toilet, or a raised seat or commode chair over an Indian toilet
- Handrails on the stairs and a grab bar in the bathroom
- Clear walkways, with loose rugs and wires out of the way
- Everyday items moved to waist height, so you do not need to bend or climb
- A night light between the bed and the bathroom
- A family member or helper for the first week or two
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring all previous X-rays, scans and reports, a list of your medicines and allergies, and your health insurance details. A family member is welcome to come with you.
Can a family member come with me?
Yes, and it often helps. A family member can help remember the advice, ask questions, and plan any treatment or recovery at home.
Is it all right to ask for a second opinion?
Yes. A good surgeon is comfortable with patients seeking a second opinion before a planned operation. Bring your X-rays, scans and reports so the second doctor can see the full picture.
What happens if I wait before having surgery?
For most arthritis, waiting is safe; the joint usually wears slowly and you can decide when the pain is affecting your life enough. Some problems should not wait, such as many fractures, tendon ruptures and joint infections. Dr. Gadkari will tell you which applies to you.
Book a Consultation
Talk to Dr. Gadkari about your joints. Message the clinic on WhatsApp or call, and they will find a time and place that suits you.
Pending Medical Review: Dr. Gadkari has not yet approved this page.