Dr Warren Kuo

How do I pay for treatment?

All consultations with Dr Kuo are to be paid in full on the day of service. For a list of fees please speak with our staff on 02 4732 4557. We accept cash, EFTPOS, Visa and MasterCard. Apologies for any inconvenience but we do not accept cheque, AMEX or Diners. To cancel an appointment: Please cancel at least 24 hours prior if possible so that your appointment time can be allocated to another patient who is seeking treatment.

Will surgery be painful?

Arthroscopy of the shoulder and knee has revolutionised joint surgery. Although externally there are only small incisions (often barely visible once healed), the surgery that is performed deeper is in fact quite complex and extensive. Therefore, we expect there will be pain post-operatively. Our anaesthetists will ensure you have medications to manage the pain after surgery while in hospital as well as on discharge to go home.

When can I drive?

Driving after shoulder surgery can be as soon as 2-3weeks if no repair is required. However if you have had a repair or reconstruction then you will be unable to drive for at least 6 weeks. Knee arthroscopies take around 1-2 weeks.

Will I need physiotherapy?

In most cases yes. Physiotherapy is an essential part of your treatment. All the good work performed during surgery can be undone by not doing your post operative exercises. You will be given your physiotherapy protocol by Dr Kuo at your first post operative visit. If you don't have a regular physiotherapist, we can recommend one to you.

Will I need surgery?

Many conditions do not need surgery. Aims of treatment are to resolve symptoms in the least invasive way possible with measures such asphysiotherapy, painkillers, anti-inflammatories or activity modification. Steroid injections are often helpful and can be performed personally by DrKuo when required.

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis refers to the wearing out of the joint. The smooth cartilage surfaces which are normally "frictionless" are damaged and become irregular and worn down to bone. The surfaces start to grate against each other which results in pain and stiffness. We try to control your symptoms with pain killers, anti-inflammatories, physiotherapy and injections, but if these are not successful, surgery can be considered. It is the most common reason for joint replacement of the shoulder.

When can I return to work/sports?

Return to work time frames will be dependent upon your occupation. If a shoulder repair is not performed then office duties can be as quick as 2-4 weeks but may still require 1-2months in many cases. Physical and labouring jobs and many sports can take 3 months. When a repair is performed it may take an additional 6-8weeks to the above time frames. Knee arthroscopies can take 1-2 weeks for office jobs and up to 4-6 weeks for more physical activity.

What is wrong with my shoulder/knee?

Typically after talking to and examining you, Dr Kuo will be able to provide you with a diagnosis of what is causing your symptoms. He will recommend a treatment plan for you and correspond this information with your GP/referrer.

What happens after surgery?

You will be given an instruction sheet on discharge which informs you as to what was performed at surgery and the "do's and dont's" in the immediate post operative period. Your first post operative appointment will typically be after 1 week for knee and 2 weeks for shoulder surgery. Dr Kuo will review your wounds and explain in greater detail what was performed at surgery and what happens next.

What tests need to be done?

Your GP will often organise X-rays and Ultrasounds prior to your consultation. In many cases this information is all that is needed. Sometimes further investigations are helpful and Dr Kuo will arrange for you to have an MRI, CT scan or other additional tests.