Best Orthopedic Surgeons in Port St. Lucie

Introduction to Orthopedics in Port St. Lucie

Definition and scope of orthopedics

Orthopedics is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders of the musculoskeletal system. In Port St. Lucie, orthopedic surgeons offer a wide range of services to address various conditions affecting bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

The field of orthopedics encompasses several subspecialties, as evidenced by the diverse expertise of local physicians. For instance, Dr. Anuj Prasher specializes in orthopedic spine surgery, while Dr. Check Kam focuses on hand and upper extremity surgery. Other areas of specialization include sports medicine, as practiced by Dr. Anthony Cerminara, and shoulder and elbow surgery, which is Dr. William Carlson's area of expertise.

Common orthopedic conditions treated by these specialists include joint pain, fractures, sprains, arthritis, and sports injuries. The variety of specializations available in Port St. Lucie ensures that patients can find expert care for their specific orthopedic needs.

Importance of choosing the right orthopedic surgeon

Selecting the appropriate orthopedic surgeon is a significant decision that can greatly influence the success of your treatment. The right surgeon will have the necessary expertise, experience, and skills to address your specific condition effectively.

Treatment outcomes can be significantly improved when you work with a surgeon who specializes in your particular orthopedic issue. For example, if you're dealing with a hand injury, consulting a specialist like Dr. Nikola Lekic, who focuses on hand and upper extremity surgery, may lead to better results.

Additionally, the patient-doctor relationship plays a key role in the overall treatment experience. A good rapport with your surgeon can lead to better communication, increased trust, and a more comfortable treatment process. This is reflected in the high patient ratings of many Port St. Lucie orthopedic surgeons, such as Dr. Anuj Prasher and Dr. Check Kam, both of whom have impressive 4.9-star ratings from hundreds of patient reviews.

Overview of the Doctor Selection Process in Port St. Lucie

Factors to consider when choosing an orthopedic surgeon

Qualifications and board certifications

• Review the educational background of doctors
• Check for board certifications in orthopedic surgery

Experience and specializations

• Consider years of practice and areas of expertise
• Look for surgeons with experience in specific orthopedic procedures

Hospital affiliations

• Evaluate the reputation of affiliated hospitals
• Consider the convenience of hospital locations

Patient reviews and ratings

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews
• Read patient testimonials for insights into doctor-patient interactions

Resources for finding orthopedic surgeons in Port St. Lucie

Online directories and review websites

• Utilize Healthgrades and other medical review platforms
• Compare information across multiple sources

Referrals from primary care physicians

• Consult with your primary care doctor for recommendations
• Discuss your specific orthopedic needs

Local medical associations and societies

• Check for membership in professional orthopedic organizations
• Look for local orthopedic specialists through medical societies

Top-Ranked Orthopedic Surgeons in Port St. Lucie

Dr. Anuj Prasher

Specialties and Expertise

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Orthopedic Spine Surgery

Education and Certifications

• University of California San Francisco Fellowship
• The University of Toledo Residency
• Wayne State University Medical School
• American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Certified

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 4.9-star rating based on 339 reviews
• Highly regarded for orthopedic and spine treatments

Dr. Check Kam

Specialties and Expertise

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery

Education and Certifications

• University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital Residency
• Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center Fellowship
• University of Virginia School of Medicine
• American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Certified

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 4.9-star rating based on 343 reviews
• Specialized in hand and upper extremity treatments

Dr. Anthony Cerminara

Specialties and Expertise

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Orthopedic Sports Medicine

Education and Certifications

• Steadman-Philippon Research Institute Fellowship
• University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital Residency
• University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine
• American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Certified

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 4.9-star rating based on 280 reviews
• Expertise in sports-related orthopedic injuries

Dr. Nikola Lekic

Specialties and Expertise

• Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery
• Orthopedic Hand Surgery
• Orthopedic Surgery

Education and Certifications

• Baylor College of Medicine Hand Surgery Fellowship
• University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital Residency
• Georgetown University School of Medicine

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 4.9-star rating based on 134 reviews
• Specialized in hand and upper extremity surgeries

Dr. William Carlson

Specialties and Expertise

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Orthopedic Shoulder & Elbow Surgery

Education and Certifications

• Wayne State University Residency
• Saint Louis University School of Medicine
• American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Certified

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 4.8-star rating based on 190 reviews
• Extensive experience in shoulder and elbow surgeries

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Orthopedic Surgeon in Port St. Lucie

Questions to Ask During a Consultation

Experience with specific procedures

• Inquire about the surgeon's experience with your particular condition
• Ask about the number of similar procedures performed annually

Expected outcomes and recovery time

• Discuss potential complications and success rates
• Request information on the typical recovery process and timeline

Alternative treatment options

• Explore non-surgical alternatives if applicable
• Understand the pros and cons of different treatment approaches

Understanding Insurance Coverage and Costs

In-network vs. out-of-network providers

• Check if the surgeon is in-network with your insurance plan
• Understand the financial implications of choosing an out-of-network provider

Estimating out-of-pocket expenses

• Request a breakdown of expected costs
• Inquire about payment plans or financial assistance options

Preparing for Your Appointment

Gathering medical records and imaging results

• Collect relevant medical history and previous treatment information
• Bring recent X-rays, MRIs, or other diagnostic images

List of questions and concerns

• Prepare a list of specific questions about your condition and treatment options
• Note any concerns or preferences you have regarding your care