Open or “Dear Doctor” referrals are assigned to the shortest waiting list and receive the earliest possible appointment.
If you are referred to a specific Consultant, then your waiting period is determined by that Consultant’s waiting list. Consultants with multiple specialties may have longer waiting lists.
If you have been referred to the National Orthopaedic Hospital Cappagh, it’s important to note that not all orthopaedic surgeons hold outpatient clinics at this hospital. Some consultants may also hold clinics at other hospitals. In addition, the MSK Triage Clinic may invite you to an appointment at another location. When you receive an appointment letter, it will detail your appointment’s location, so double-check the address and time.
As an elective surgical centre, surgical procedures are planned in advance and rarely cancelled. Several factors can determine your date for surgery. These include:
Surgical Procedure
Delays in obtaining specialist equipment (e.g. prosthesis) and securing specialist services (e.g. spinal cord monitoring) can prolong the waiting period.
Complex Procedures and Underlying Health Conditions
Patients undergoing complex surgical procedures and those with underlying medical conditions often require postoperative care in the Higher Dependency Unit (HDU). HDU beds at the Hospital are limited. Where possible, the medical team will anticipate the need for a HDU bed. If a HDU bed is not available, you may experience a delay.
COVID-19
If you test positive for COVID-19, we will defer your surgery for seven weeks from the testing date to ensure your safety and well-being. However, if you continue to experience symptoms after seven weeks, please get in touch with the Hospital for advice.
Medical Records
We often request medical records from your GP, another Consultant or Hospital. This information is relevant to your treatment; we cannot proceed to surgery without it. Unfortunately, delays in obtaining files can increase waiting times.
Surgical Risk
The Preoperative Assessment Clinic (PAC) assesses your suitability for surgery. If you have an infection, underlying health condition or high Body Mass Index (BMI), you may not be suitable for surgery at this time. In this event, PAC will defer surgery, recommending health improvements, investigations or procedures to reduce your surgical risk.
Your safety is our priority. Once medical information gathering is complete and your surgical risk, peri-operative requirements, and postoperative care have been thoroughly assessed, you will receive a date for surgery.