Melbourne knee spe******ts

[injuryupdate]

This is by no means meant to be an exhaustive list, but a guide to some of the specialists who see exclusively or mainly sports knee problems in Melbourne. This list could admittedly go on for a lot longer, as the knee is a very popular area for surgery and most surgeons who operate anywhere will have a go at the knee if given a chance.

Knee surgeons:
John Bartlett, 03 9459 6611
Julian Feller 03 9473 8850
Ian Henderson, 03 9415 8000
Iain McLean, 03 9650 3833
Hayden Morris, 03 9417 7299
David Young, 03 9510 6828

If anyone knows of others who are experts in knee injuries in Melbourne, please add to the list (or start another thread if you know of others in a different state).

[injuryupdate]

John Bartlett is worth a special mention, as he was (I think) the first surgeon in Melbourne to complete subspecialise in a particular joint (the knee). Over the years he has done reconstruction on many AFL players, particularly from Essendon and Collingwood.

Julian Feller was orginally a student of John Bartlett's and is now one of the leading knee surgeons in Melbourne in his own right. He has been particularly impressive in publishing a lot of research about the relative merits of patellar versus hamstring reconstruction in athletes.

The list above includes a few names who are very prominent sports orthopaedic surgeons in Melbourne but who don't exclusively operates on knees (e.g. David Young, Ian Henderson). The biggest sports orthopaedic group in Melbourne is MOG, and they have a website at:

http://www.mog.com.au/

[injuryupdate]

Also worth noting, although knee injuries often require surgery, if you have patella tendinopathy (tendinitis etc.) then don't see a surgeon, instead see a sports physician or a physiotherapist.

In Melbourne, Jill Cook is an internationally-reknowned expert on patella tendinopathy having completed a PhD on this topic. Her physio practice is hard to get into (at Alphington) but worth it if you have jumper's knee.

[Itze]

Julian Feller did my knee in December 04 at La Trobe Medical Centre, really good bloke. He used the hamstring graft. I even had a student from the nearby La Trobe Uni come in pre-op and do a few tests with various knee braces for her Masters degree and she said he is one of the two best knee surgeons in the country.

[Unregistered]

I have recently completely torn my ACL. I have been recommended to see Julian Feller and/or Adrian Trivett. Has your friend heard of Adrian Trivett?

[Alla]

I have recently completely torn my ACL. I have been recommended to see Julian Feller and/or Adrian Trivett. Has your friend heard of Adrian Trivett?

I dont know about Adrian, but Julian did my knee this year.... and Im really happy with what he's done.... he's a nice bloke too.

Alla

[feeny]

Julian Feller did my ACL very recently. So far I am entirely impressed with his manner and work. And yes, he does seem a nice bloke too!

Julian was the 3rd surgeon I visited - the first two didn't seem too interested in talking to me...

[Unregistered]

Just got my knee reco just under 6 weeks ago by Adrian Trivett and cant recommnd him highly enough.

Very little scaring, 6 weeks, I am walking almost without a limp and am getting right into the rehab.

[Unregistered]

Julian Feller is a fantastic surgeon. He has been my surgeon for 10 years/6 operations. I have a problem where the ligaments/tendons and bones are crooked, I'm finally having my last operation in 2 weeks to straighten everything out. I cannot reccomend him highly enough, He's motivated, caring and offers time to explain things in detail to his patients. There is no need to question his abilities, no other surgeon I have seen (And I have seen quite a few), meets Julian's standards....

[Unregistered]

Here Here.

[Unregistered]

I recently had my ACL reconstructed by Hayden Morris. Awesome orthopaedic surgeon and was back up and walking very quickly (according to my physiotherapist).

I had so many problems trying to visit Julian Feller (4 mth wait period. His receptionist was such a b!tch about moving my appointment forward because I didn't go to his "preferred" sports physician for my referral) that I gave up, cancelled my appointment and went to Hayden.

Anyway - I know I made the right decision - great doctor, explained everything and money very well spent.

Thanks also to the staff at Vimy House Private in Kew. I have never met a greater group of nurses than I did there. Great team of theater nurses as well.

[Alla]

I think it is a shame that you had a bad experience with Julian. I've had no problems at all with him or his work. I've even had to shift appointments around and it has all been done with no hastles. I guess that it is all how you find them, what you think of them.

Alla

[rezyn8]

I tore the ACL in my left knee on 14.12.05 and will be having surgery with Iain McLean on February third.

Seems like a nice guy and explained everything to me really well. A few people recommended him to me from past experience. He will be using a hamstring graft as well.

[kike]

had an acl recon by Andrew Mcqueen at the Melbourne Orthopaedics Group , highly recommend him very professional and thorough, im very happy with the job.

[Unregistered]

Happened upon this forum. Really nice to hear of positive experiences with Julian/Vimy House, makes me feel good about what I do :-)

[Unregistered]

I recently had my ACL reconstructed by Hayden Morris. Awesome orthopaedic surgeon and was back up and walking very quickly (according to my physiotherapist).

I had so many problems trying to visit Julian Feller (4 mth wait period. His receptionist was such a b!tch about moving my appointment forward because I didn't go to his "preferred" sports physician for my referral) that I gave up, cancelled my appointment and went to Hayden.

Anyway - I know I made the right decision - great doctor, explained everything and money very well spent.

Thanks also to the staff at Vimy House Private in Kew. I have never met a greater group of nurses than I did there. Great team of theater nurses as well.




What is it about some #%@* medical receptionists? Some of them are so darn rude - they should get jobs in another profession, one which doesn?t involve dealing with people. I have cancelled two appointments recently because of this. I?m sure others do too. Some medical receptionists must cost their employers a lot of money in lost business. Only problem is, they will never know.

[injuryupdate]

As this is an 'open' Forum, it is great to have honest comments about experiences in the sports medicine system. At the moment we have a fairly relaxed policy with respect to moderation (i.e. posts appear as you write them without needing to be screened) and if those using the Forum follow basic rules of decency, we can keep this policy going.

One major rule is that if we see a comment that could be defamatory we will be obliged to delete it. It is OK to say that you used a certain surgeon, for example, and didn't get a good result, or even that the bedside manner wasn't what you would have liked. However, no one can call a specific professional an a-hole or the like.

The comment about the receptionist of a specific surgeon, listed above, is getting very close to the bone (pardon the pun), but is just permissible because it doesn't identify an individual, as each clinic has stacks of receptionists.

It is a worthy issue to remember that sports medicine professionals tend to market themselves on their individual names and as a result the top surgeons, for example, are in very high demand. Because lots of people have posted great comments about Julian Feller (and it can only help his reputation) you can imagine that he is an example of a popular surgeon where demand is outstripping supply. He can only operation on a limited number of people per week and see a certain number of people per week. The reception staff are the meat in the sandwich with respect to the number of people who would like to see a top-name surgeon and those who actually make it to first base. Surgeons deal with their popularity by ever-increasing their fees into new levels of the ozone layer, and having front door lists and back door lists (a bit like popular nightclubs). If you have a referral from Dr Bloggs saying please see patient X about their knee problem, full stop, then this is not going to get past the front door waiting list, which may be 2-3 months for a popular surgeon. You can call a receptionist whatever you like, but she is just following clinic and surgeon policy if you have a random referral and the waiting list is whatever she tells you.

The way to get on the back-door list is to get a referral from a reputable source (i.e. sports physician who the surgeon might trust is good at diagnosis) along the following lines: Please see patient X, who has torn his/her ACL last weekend. He/she would specifically like to see surgeon Y because he/she knows that surgeon Y has a special interest in ACL reconstruction. He/she has private health insurance and is keen to get a reconstruction as soon as possible to return for next year's season.

If you can get a referral like this, from a reliable source, and fax it to the clinic, then you will make it on the back-door list. Guess what - surgeons make lots of money doing ACL recos on patients with private health and they are going to want as many in the door as possible. However, if they don't know you or your diagnosis from a bar of soap then you can cop the waiting time.

Remember too that all surgeons have their failures (JF has had a recent high profile spectacular success with an ACL reco but also has had one of his AFL player recos re-tear as well). Generally the high profile surgeons get good results but not always. Perhaps you can have a go at the RACS for not training enough sports medicine orthopaedic specialists, and our state governments for our public hospitals having waiting lists which are too long.

Remember that like any other industry, the top dog (the surgeon) is raking in the cash, the poor receptionist, who might be on a decent pay by industry standards, is not getting nearly the same amount but cops a disproportionate amount of abuse from the dissatsfied public.

There is a bit of a game in getting an appointment with the surgeon of your choice, but it's worth learning how to play it. And by all means, if the receptionist really is that rude, then you can take you custom elsewhere and hopefully market forces will correct the problem. If a surgeon stops being busy because no one can stand the front desk staff, then sooner or later the problem will need to get corrected.

[Unregistered]

Thanks for your reply. I appreciate the time that you have taken to make your comments but they seem to relate more to the earlier post rather than the one I just made.

In making my comment I was very careful not to name indivduals or use swear words, so as not to defame or offend. I apologise if my comments were somehow still too offensive.

I linked my comment with the ?Melbourne knee specialists? comment only because of the person?s apparent experience with rude reception staff (I remembered reading the comment some time ago), no other reason. (I don?t live in Melbourne).

My comment was purely about the attitude and interpersonal skills of some medical reception staff (some are awesome no matter what) and had nothing to do with getting in to see top surgeons.

Of my two recent experiences (both during the last fortnight), one was with the receptionist of a local, suburban ?no name? gp; the other was one of the many receptionists at a top clinic (at which I did manage to gain ?back door entrance? for surgery).

On the first occasion (local gp), I simply rang to see when my gp next had a free slot (I was in no hurry to see her); on the second (top clinic), I already had a post op review appointment and was simply ringing to check if payment for the surgery was required prior to the appointment (there no indication on the invoice). Both queries were made politely and neither deserved the rude response received. Perhaps I was unlucky and someone had just chewed their ear off and they felt a need to take it out on someone. I can appreciate that they probably deal with some difficult people on a daily basis but I would hope that someone in that position would identify more effective means of dealing with their aggravation rather than blasting the next hapless patient who is simply making an simple and polite enquiry. Is that too much to ask? Patients have rights too.

[Unregistered]

Injuryupdate,

I was glad that you made that post because it was exactly how I felt. Medical receptionists have it pretty tough, I dont envy their jobs at all, and what we need to realise is that like everyone else, they are under pressures that we as patients arent aware of.

If you want your first preference for surgeon, then perhaps you should consider private health insurance. It got me in to see my preferred surgeon within 2 weeks of seeing the Sports medico. And Im more then happy with the outcome!

[Unregistered]

Injuryupdate,

I was glad that you made that post because it was exactly how I felt. Medical receptionists have it pretty tough, I dont envy their jobs at all, and what we need to realise is that like everyone else, they are under pressures that we as patients arent aware of.

If you want your first preference for surgeon, then perhaps you should consider private health insurance. It got me in to see my preferred surgeon within 2 weeks of seeing the Sports medico. And Im more then happy with the outcome!

Hi,

I'm not sure if you read my post directly above yours, from your response it seems that you may not have.

As per my comment above - my post has nothing to do with getting into see top surgeons and everything to do with simple politeness and understanding - from both sides. (I have private health insurance and I know how to "play the game". I also got into see my preferred surgeon within 2 weeks, the surgery was completed one week later and I am more than happy with the outcome).

The two responses to my post yesterday (I did not make the original post about the receptionist in Melbourne) are valid responses to the original post about the receptionist in Melbourne but not to my comment (I am sorry now that I linked my post to that one as the respondents to date have completely missed the point of my post. My mistake). The responses highlight, however, an important point - sometimes people latch onto one comment, make assumptions about that and respond to that instead of listening to what the current person is actually saying. I am sure that that sometimes happens when you call medical receptionists (and I'm not saying all are rude because they are definitely not). They may have had an irate patient call about something similar and immediately assume that the new conversation - if on the same topic - will go the same way (and respond accordingly) instead of listening to what the person is actually asking or saying.

Life would be more enjoyable for all if both parties could recognise the stresses of the other, listen to what each person is saying rather than making assumptions, and respond like decent human beings.

[Syd Uni sports clinic]

BTW, if you make a post and leave your name as "Unregistered" and someone else does the same thing, it is hard to follow who is who. Better to give yourself a name if you want people to directly reply to your posts.

[dave_worland]

Hi people,
Can anyone tell me about Ian Hendersons work? A friend of mine is a physio and recommended him as a surgeon but before making my decision I was looking for some extra feedback on what some real experiences might have been like. Another option recommended was Hayden Morris who has been spoken of quite highly here!
Thanks,
Dave

[injuryupdate]

Ian Henderson is a pretty old school surgeon, in my opinion. Very experienced, technically good but generally has a typical surgeon's bedside manner. He is definitely in the A-list of Melbourne sports surgeons (does plenty of work for St Kilda) but may not be everyone's cup of tea.

Hayden Morris is a bit younger than Henderson and probably has done less career procedures, however, maybe a bit more personable for some patients. He would also on the A-list for most referring practitioners.

In choosing between Henderson and Morris it is like choosing between a VW and a Honda - both make good cars, some slight differences but hardly anyone would say you bought a crummy brand of car. The anology continues in that you might expect to pay good money as well.

By the way, people are welcome to make personal comments about doctors, surgeons and physios etc on this Forum with the rules of:
(1) try to be objective - you can fairly state that you had a bad outcome with surgeon X but from this one bad outcome you can't generalise to say X is a bad surgeon.
(2) anything defamatory is not on - if we find it we'll delete it.

[Unregistered]

Hi I have had over 20 operations with Ian Henderson he is certainly old school. You may wait 1 hour in the waiting room and then when you get to see him he might give you about 5 minutes if you are lucky, but he is straight to the point, he will send you for a xray or MRI that day if you have travelled like I do. and operate the next week. I started attending his clinic back in 1988 for Shoulder Reconstructions RGT and LFT shoulders, he was the only surgeon in Melbourne who new what was wrong with my joints. They would be reconstructed and once I started physio they would pop out. I now have a Kennedy LAD Synthetic Ligament, pins,screews etc in one of my shoulders. The only option I have is to have my shoulder fused to stop the pain it is called a arthrodesis, which at the moment I am only 42 cannot have done. This operation has not been done before in Australia so it is an unknown world. He has allways had overseas trainee surgeons with him to learn and are very good in their own right.

Last week I had to have an arthroscope on my knee to remove the following: bakers cyst, broken bone, bone spurs, cartliage and the synovial membrane removed. I awoke with a drain tube in and also a femoral artery pain block. I did not see Ian in hospital (which is not unusual) the Mercy which is where his rooms are. I spent 5 days in hospital and went back last wed and found that I have a large internal ulcer in my knee, which he cleaned up as much as possible, he had 4 pages of photos to show me what me knee looked like on the inside "pretty bloody bad". I will never be able to walk properly, kneel down,squat, walk up or down stairs I said I am only 42 that does not leave much for me to do? So at the moment I am a little bit depressed as I cannot swim because of shoulders and no other sport because of my knee.

As with Henderson when I started he operated on the Geelong, Hawthorn, St.Kilda and Carlton Football teams but because of ethics etc he now operates on only St. Kilda footballers.

I was in the waiting room one day and there was Spider Everett, Andrew Bews, Nicky Winmar and another sports person and we had al had our shoulders operated on the same day. If you have a look at the ninemsn site they have an article about him when he was on the footy show doing Everetts knee.

Compared to another surgeon I have he is very abrupt and does not have a bed side manner, but he is one of the leading surgeons in this country and is currently doing a lot of cartligage regrowth.

So I can recommend him as his skills are the best, but dont walk in there until you have tried every other angle like physio etc, as he is not one to operate unless he needs to.

[injuryupdate]

Thanks for these comments - constructive and paints a fair picture (from one person's perspective) what this surgeon is like. Others may disagree, but it gives you an idea that if you want cuddles and sympathy then he may not be the specialist you should see, but if difficult technical surgery is required then his reputation is very good.

[Unregistered]

I love it! Hendo certainly does have 'typical surgeons bedside manner! I always treat my appointments with him like i am preparing for a school exam. Make sure you are prepared, know what you want to ask him (i make a list), and then when you do get in the room with him, don't bother saying hello - just get stuck into. I've had six ops with hendo, and i wouldn't go to anyone else.

[Unregistered]

Hi I am the person who posted no. 24, yes you are right I could never go to another surgeon and if you have your questions ready he will answer them straight to the point. He allways gives you the answers and has lots of pictures of your operation.

Has anyone been diagnosed as having a large ulcer growing inside their knee? As Hendo said this is very rare case and there is little information on this as it is caused by degnerative and wear and tear. If anyone has any information I would be gratefull.

[Unregistered]

I have torn my medial ligament 2 weeks ago and was seen in Epworth hospital by Mr Peter Gard. Has anyone hard of him? I am a little concerned as no MRI was done at the time. I have tried to get in to see Julian Feller, John Bartlett and Hayden Morris but no joy.

[Alla]

I didnt have an MRI either when I ruptured my ACL. They could tell by the physical tests and how my knee presented what I had done, so Im not suprised that you havent been sent for an MRI. MRIs can be expensive, and dont always pick up what is wrong anyway. Im not much help on what Peter Gard is like, I saw one of the other three that you mentioned.

Alla

[Unregistered]

Had My ACL reco done by hayden morris on the 29/10/2005 and i'm fine, had a hamstring graft, was walking without crutches after 2.5 weeks, walking without a limp after 4-5 weeks, everything went fine, also had 2 screws in the side of my knee for a compression fracture aswell (did my ACL, MCL and fracture, my knee went the same way as robert murphy)

It's been 8-9 months and i'm back to sport (not competitive yet) I can say that i'm very happy with hayden morris's work and can't recommend him enough :D

[kayal]

hello everyone. my name is Kamil. im 22 and a uni student. recently my knee started hurting, so my local GP refered me to a specialist. i went and saw a dr bruce love. i wasnt very impressed with the consultation. he pretty much poked and prodded my knee for 20 seconds, and then recomended Arthroscopic surgery. he didnt explain anything about the procedure, he pretty much didnt say anything. my questions were answered with very brief one sentance asnwers.

ive read through this thread, and havent heard of any of the popular doctors, namely Bartlet and Feller. does anyone have anything to say about a dr andrew Shimmin? or also a minoo patel?

im also worried about the procedure, since dr love literally didnt explain a thing about it, other than naming it, is it relativly minor? will i be bedridden or in crutches for a few days?

i really appreciate any help on this matter. - kam

[Alla]

Hi,
Im sorry you are having issues with your knee.

If you are worried about the procedure you are about to recieve then I'd recommend asking lots of questions and insisting on answers that satisfy your curiosity. Ask more questions if your first few dont help you to understand. . If you are still not satisfied, then I'd look for another OS who suits your needs. At the end of the day, you need to feel comfortable with what you are about to go through. I went in with a list to my OS, Julian Feller, and he answered everything very straight forwardly and in a manner that I could understand, and I was very happy with the outcome and his manner.

I cant help you much with your procedure, you will probably find that it depends on what they do during the arthroscopic surgery as to how long you are bed ridden ect. My mother in law had arthrocopic surgery to remove some cartlidge, she was in and out of hospital that day, on crutches for a week and a half, and then was ok to resume some gentle exercise. But these are all things that you should be asking the OS that is performing your surgery.

Alla

[Unregistered]

Hi Kayal,

I have been to see Andrew Shimmin a number of times for second opinions. He hasn't operated on me but i have found that he will explain things in as much detail as you want and that he is happy to talk to you for as long as you need without giving the impression that he wants you to hurry up. I actually have had all my surgeries with another surgeon who likes to conserve his words and get you out the door, so i go to Shimmin if i want to talk more about any issues.

Good Luck.

[2nd knee op]

I did my knee last year and Julian Feller operated on it and done a great job he explains everything and makes you feel relaxed about operationa and he took my tendon from Hmastring, then this year after making my comeback to footy i did my knee again and julian done 2nd operation and this time he fixed medial and took tendon from patella. really top bloke and couldt thank him enough.

[Belindaprice]

Hi Guys,

Great to here all about different knee surgeons. I have to get an acl reconstruction and at the moment cant decide who to have it done by.. its either John Bartlett or Julian Fellar. Ive only heard great things about both of them, and I can get in with either as I have private cover. I am also going away over summer and coming back end of Feb and so either surgeon will do it when I want which is in about 4 months.

Can anyone give me comparisons?! I also heard that Julian trained under John... If you have had john could you let me know what he's like?

thanks, really appreciate your comments.

Belinda

[Alla]

Hi there

I can highly recommend Julian. He did my reco about 18 months ago, and it is great. At this stage it is fully functional, and you can hardly even see a scar. I found him very professional, he explained everything, and answered all my questions in language I could understand. I also hear that John Bartlet is very good, and yes, I to heard that Julian trained under John.. One of my friends father had a knee reco done by John some 18 years ago, and continued on his footy career. Last year he decided he had to have it reviewed as he'd done the ACL again, and was delighted to hear John was still practising.

It is going to be a decision that you have to make, as far as Im aware both are excellent!

Cheers
Alla

[Belindaprice]

Thanks for your reply!

Ill just keep on thinking...

[NickT]

Hi all

long time reader, first time poster!!

Had a R ACL reco done about 9 years ago by Shane Waddell in Sydney (RPAH). I have recently in the last 6-9 months of playing soccer on a social but fairly competitive scale been getting very sore, so early December I went to Prahran Sports Centre to get a referral to see Julian Feller for an arthroscopy, after getting Xrays done at the time....just to make sure everything was OK.

well, I got on the phone and after telling them i had a private health cover, a referral, xrays, who the doctor I saw, I got told that the earliest I could see Julian was 5th of April. 4 months to wait!!!! Is he seriously THAT busy (I know he's a very popular surgeon)? Or did I need to say the back-door secret handshake password to get an appointment in 2 weeks?? Did I not go and see the right referring Dr?

I'm really worried now that I get to see him, I'll have to wait another 4 months to get the surgery!!

Other than that guys......great forum!!

Nick T

[kjwilkin]

Hi all

long time reader, first time poster!!

Had a R ACL reco done about 9 years ago by Shane Waddell in Sydney (RPAH). I have recently in the last 6-9 months of playing soccer on a social but fairly competitive scale been getting very sore, so early December I went to Prahran Sports Centre to get a referral to see Julian Feller for an arthroscopy, after getting Xrays done at the time....just to make sure everything was OK.

well, I got on the phone and after telling them i had a private health cover, a referral, xrays, who the doctor I saw, I got told that the earliest I could see Julian was 5th of April. 4 months to wait!!!! Is he seriously THAT busy (I know he's a very popular surgeon)? Or did I need to say the back-door secret handshake password to get an appointment in 2 weeks?? Did I not go and see the right referring Dr?

I'm really worried now that I get to see him, I'll have to wait another 4 months to get the surgery!!



Other than that guys......great forum!!

Nick T

Hi there,

I've sent you a private message. You will probably be able to get to see him earlier if you see him at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre.

The waiting time for surgery with Julian is usually about a month, but it depends on what you need done etc. So, don't despair !!!

[Alla]

Hi there

I waited a couple of weeks to see Julian, and was told by my referring Dr that he is a busy man and that I was lucky to get in so early. I know he is a busy and popular Dr because he actually said when we were discussing the arthroscope for my knee that he would not perform an ACLR unless I needed it because he didnt need the extra work.... (they did the arthroscope and the ACLR at the same time..... I needed it!). I actually had the surgery 10 days after seeing Julian....so you might get lucky. I saw him at the LaTrobe Medical Centre, and that is also where I had the surgery.

To be honest,..... he's worth the wait I reckon..... my knee is spot on at the moment.

Alla

[NickT]

I also have the appointment at LaTrobe. Maybe they don't like the Drs at Prahran and make their patients wait!

[kjwilkin]

I also have the appointment at LaTrobe. Maybe they don't like the Drs at Prahran and make their patients wait!

It's not about that. As he's so busy he only likes seeing patients at Olympic Park that are referred from a sports physician at Olympic Park.

[KenChee]

Hi Everyone,
I just recently had an injury on my right knee while playing basketball. I was seen by Dr Minoo Patel in the emergency. He told me i'm certain to have a knee reconstruction, but we has ordered for me to have a NRI done first before we decide on anything. I got friends who are recommeding Harry Tsigaris or Russell Miller. My question is, does anyone have any experience with either of these surgeons? Dr Patel, Tsigaris or Miller? Thanks

[kjwilkin]

Hi Everyone,
I just recently had an injury on my right knee while playing basketball. I was seen by Dr Minoo Patel in the emergency. He told me i'm certain to have a knee reconstruction, but we has ordered for me to have a NRI done first before we decide on anything. I got friends who are recommeding Harry Tsigaris or Russell Miller. My question is, does anyone have any experience with either of these surgeons? Dr Patel, Tsigaris or Miller? Thanks

Hi there,

I have vaguely heard of Patel, but not the others.

My knee surgeon is Julian Feller and I know that he does a lot of ACL reconstructions and is very well known within his field. I think he does more than 200 ACL reconstructions a year. I would highly recommend going to someone that does a lot of knee reconstructions. He is also strong on rehab which is just as important after surgery. So, I'd highly recommend him.

You will get into see him sooner if you see him at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre. However, you will need to see one of the sports physicians there first. Andrew Jowett and Chris Bradshaw are my sports physicians and are both very good.

Julian has also operated on a lot of elite athletes too such as Alisa Camplin, Nathan Buckley and James Hird to name a few.

All the best !!!

[KenChee]

Hi there,

I have vaguely heard of Patel, but not the others.

My knee surgeon is Julian Feller and I know that he does a lot of ACL reconstructions and is very well known within his field. I think he does more than 200 ACL reconstructions a year. I would highly recommend going to someone that does a lot of knee reconstructions. He is also strong on rehab which is just as important after surgery. So, I'd highly recommend him.

You will get into see him sooner if you see him at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre. However, you will need to see one of the sports physicians there first. Andrew Jowett and Chris Bradshaw are my sports physicians and are both very good.

Julian has also operated on a lot of elite athletes too such as Alisa Camplin, Nathan Buckley and James Hird to name a few.

All the best !!!

Thanks for the advise. I did try Julian Feller but the earliest i can see him is in end of April. I can't afford to wait that long as i will need to get back to work asap and my knee is really unstable. My MRI conclusion is
1. Complete ACL rupture
2. Complex bucket-handle tear of the medial meniscus
3. Horizontal tear of the lateral meniscus
4. Posterolateral corner cartilate injury as described without accompanying bone bruising
5. Minor articular cartilate loss LFC

Any other surgeons to recommend? thanks

[kjwilkin]

Thanks for the advise. I did try Julian Feller but the earliest i can see him is in end of April. I can't afford to wait that long as i will need to get back to work asap and my knee is really unstable. My MRI conclusion is
1. Complete ACL rupture
2. Complex bucket-handle tear of the medial meniscus
3. Horizontal tear of the lateral meniscus
4. Posterolateral corner cartilate injury as described without accompanying bone bruising
5. Minor articular cartilate loss LFC

Any other surgeons to recommend? thanks

Hi Ken,

I just sent you a private message. You can get into see Julian Feller earlier at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre. You will just need to see one of their sports physicians first. I think you probably rang his main rooms to see him at Bundoora.

The number for Olympic Park is 9427 0366.

Good luck !!

[moi]

Sorry, have to agree with teh comments about Julian's reception staff. Although he has some lovely staff there is one that is horrendous to deal with, rude, abrasive, patronising. She made an unpleasant time as unpleasant as she could!!! And I've worked in healthcare for quite some time.....so I do understand the pressures. But she is unnecessarily aggressive!

[kjwilkin]

Sorry, have to agree with teh comments about Julian's reception staff. Although he has some lovely staff there is one that is horrendous to deal with, rude, abrasive, patronising. She made an unpleasant time as unpleasant as she could!!! And I've worked in healthcare for quite some time.....so I do understand the pressures. But she is unnecessarily aggressive!

Hi there,

I've sent you a private message. You really need to be careful about making comments about the staff of surgeons. They have a difficult job to do and isn't easy at times.

[NickT]

Hi there,

I have vaguely heard of Patel, but not the others.

My knee surgeon is Julian Feller and I know that he does a lot of ACL reconstructions and is very well known within his field. I think he does more than 200 ACL reconstructions a year. I would highly recommend going to someone that does a lot of knee reconstructions. He is also strong on rehab which is just as important after surgery. So, I'd highly recommend him.

You will get into see him sooner if you see him at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre. However, you will need to see one of the sports physicians there first. Andrew Jowett and Chris Bradshaw are my sports physicians and are both very good.

Julian has also operated on a lot of elite athletes too such as Alisa Camplin, Nathan Buckley and James Hird to name a few.

All the best !!!

He did Alan Didak's knee recently too!!!

He did my arthroscope with clean up 2 weeks ago and is just great!!

take kjwilkin's advice. Julian Feller all the way....and he's a really nice guy!

[charliec]

hi guys,
The info on orthopods is really useful, but I just wondered if anyone knew if any of these surgeons have a particular specialty in Osteocondritis - a particular bone disorder usually knee related that I suffer from.
Any help or advice gratefully received. ( I had been to see Mervyn Cross in Sydney - who was great and is a v. well respected knee surgeon, but I've moved to Melbourne and may need to find someone to perform surgery down here).
thanks
charlie

[kjwilkin]

hi guys,
The info on orthopods is really useful, but I just wondered if anyone knew if any of these surgeons have a particular specialty in Osteocondritis - a particular bone disorder usually knee related that I suffer from.
Any help or advice gratefully received. ( I had been to see Mervyn Cross in Sydney - who was great and is a v. well respected knee surgeon, but I've moved to Melbourne and may need to find someone to perform surgery down here).
thanks
charlie

Hi there,

I think that Julian Feller would probably be able to help you. Suggest you contact his rooms to see whether he'd be able to help you.

By the way, you'll get into see him at Olympic Park sooner after you've seen a sports physician there. Let me know if you want the contact details and I'll send you a private message.

Good luck !

[kneed2know]

Hi All,

I need a new plan of attack. I had a motorbike accident over 2 years ago and broke my tibia as well as injuring my sacroiliac. Lots of surgery and the leg was still very unstable. I was referred to a member of the MOG (I won't name him as it may be unfair) and he did an arthroscope as the knee had alot of pain. He said that my patella was very unstable and that I would need to eventually have a patella stabilization. Well my knee kept popping out so I made the decsion to go in for further surgery. My daughter was 7 months old and being out of action was going to put huge strain on family life but I was told it would be a 6 week recovery and the results would be worth it.

7 months later, I am still in pain and on crutches. My leg gives way constantly now as I have no quads. My right leg has 2cm muscle wastage and I have been persistent in my recovery. I am in physio weekly, hydrotherapy weekly, on an exercise bike and now have my very own tens machine that stimulates the muscles.

My surgeon is at a loss and keeps sending me for horrible tests. I endured a session of needles and electrodes to conclude that there is no nerve damage from my back injuries causing problem. I have had MRI's (useless as the images blurr as I have so much metal in the leg). Next up is cat scans and a meeting with the pain management team. He may have sewn the tendon too tight but he doesn't think so.

I was in at the surgeons almost 2 weeks ago. He was in a rush to get onto another appointment and walked out saying his secretary would get in touch to tell me when the next load of tests would be. He also said he would send over all the info to my new physio. I was in tears at the time and he was clearly uncomfortable. That was 2 weeks ago and still I have heard nothing. I have previously tried calling him when I had yet another fall and ended up in an ambulance but it was impossible. My physio is still waiting on results etc

So my question is Where to now? Should I give up on the current surgeon and find someone else? My current physio mentioned Ray Cross. Has anyone heard of him? I like the sound of Julian Feller but the wait seems awfully long. 7 months on crutches with a child that is now running everywhere and who I can't pick up because my leg could give way at any moment. It is all getting too much.

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

I can understand what you must be going through at the moment. I was on crutches for about 6 months with a bad knee problem and had surgery with Julian Feller to correct my patella instability.

Personally I would go to another surgeon. Having seen Julian Feller for a long time I think he would be able to help you. He loves a challenge. It is worth waiting to see someone good. You will get in to see him much more quickly at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre. He works there most Wednesday afternoons. To see him at Olympic Park you need to see a sports physician there first. There are quite a few good sports physicians there. Let me know if you want the name of a good sports physician there and will send you a private message with the details of mine. It may only take a couple of weeks to see Julian there. Otherwise you could try his main rooms. The number is 9473 8850.

I also think a good sports physician would be good in helping to manage your overall rehab. At the moment I'm doing rehab for my knee, ankle and shoulder. My sports physician is really good in helping me to work out what is most important.

Let us know how you go !!

[Alla]

Hi there

I'd check out another surgeon, you are obviously not happy with the one that you have. I also saw Julien Feller who worked wonders with my knee. I saw him within a fortnight of seeing my sports physician, and he did the surgery within 10 days of my first visit. I went through the LaTrobe Medical Centre at Bundora, where I found the service from everyone there fantastic. Personally I was surprised at how quickly I had my knee seen to. It might depend a little on what his patient list is currently at, and his schedule, but I found I got into him quite quickly.

Alla

PS. I will try to PM you.

[mons haveland]

Hei
How could I get in touch with Julain Feller. I live in Gibraltar (europe) and have heard that he's the bees knees when it comes to PCL and posterolateral reconstruction and really I would like to be seen by the best.

thank you



Julian Feller did my ACL very recently. So far I am entirely impressed with his manner and work. And yes, he does seem a nice bloke too!

Julian was the 3rd surgeon I visited - the first two didn't seem too interested in talking to me...

[kjwilkin]

Hi,

If you post your email address I'll send you his details.

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

I've sent your a private message as a test. Please let me know if you get it.

[jnrburgers]

Hi,

I have recently seen an orthopaedic surgeon called Mr Cameron Norsworthy at Epworth Eastern in Box Hill (he also consults at Epworth Richmond) for reconstructive surgery to R. Knee ACL. However, he has suggested a new technique called LARS whereby the knee is implanted with a synthetic graft, threaded through the existing ACL. He tells me that it has been very successful overseas and recovery/rehab is much quicker than patellar/hamstring graft ops. Has anybody heard of this technique or had it performed. I know an AFL footballer (from sydney i think) recently had some press highlights using this technique and was back playing in 6 weeks.

Thanks in advance.

[kjwilkin]

I would be wary of having it. Is there any particular reason why he's suggested it ?

This procedure has actually been banned in France. Make sure you do your research before considering it.

If I was you I'd get a second opinion from Julian Feller. He does a lot of ACL recos and is the orthopod to a number of top AFL clubs in Melbourne.

[summergirl]

I actually work in co with Jullian Fellers rooms at the Epworth and he truely is good! He now has two other surgeons that work from his rooms Norsworthy and Whitehead (again, both extremely good surgeons but hard to get in to because of it).

My boyfriend has just done his L ACL and doesn't have private health. We are both young and work to pay rent and now find that the hospital alone will cost us $5000 and that's not including the surgeon etc.
And if we go through the public sector, he has to wait at least 6 months which means he won't be able to work for a decent 10 months (this obviously, is not an option for us financially).
Does anyone know what we could possibly do??

[kjwilkin]

There are actually schemes now that can loan you money to help pay for surgery. From memory Julian Feller has information on these types of schemes. My brother's friend took out a personal loan to have his knee done privately.

It is worth while paying to get a good surgeon. You only get one lot of knees and is important to get it right the first time.

What type of work does your boyfriend do ? He should still be able to work while recuperating from this type of surgery.

[von]

Hi there,
Has anyone had surgery to repair a torn ACL by Mr Andrew Shimmin? I have read about the great work of the likes of Julian Feller and John Bartlett, however the waiting list is too long and so have looked elsewhere. I am a little concerned as most people recommend the same few surgeons, and am worried the quality or the results of other surgeons are inferior to theirs.
If anyone has any feedback working with Andrew Shimmin or anyone from the Melbourne Orthopedic Group for my own reassurance, it would be much appreciated.

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

It is important to someone that specialises in knees. Andrew Shimmin doesn't specialise in knees. I personally wouldn't go to Melbourne Orthopaedic Group as most of the surgeons are just generalists.

You will get into see Julian Feller a lot quicker if you see a sports physician at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre. You should be able to get in within a couple of weeks after seeing a sports physician. Also I would mention that it is an ACL injury. They will try and get you in sooner. A friend at my last work thought she'd done her ACL and when I rang up his main rooms to find out about the waiting times they said to mention that it's an ACL problem that way they'd be able to get her in quicker. They don't like to wait too long to operate on ACL injuries. The number for Olympic Park is 9427 0366. Andrew Jowett is my sports physician and is great with knees. Main number for Julian's rooms is 9038 5200.

I hope this helps.

Good luck !!!

[jnrburgers]

Hi there,

... You will get in to see him much more quickly at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre. He works there most Wednesday afternoons. To see him at Olympic Park you need to see a sports physician there first. There are quite a few good sports physicians there. Let me know if you want the name of a good sports physician there and will send you a private message with the details of mine. It may only take a couple of weeks to see Julian there. Otherwise you could try his main rooms. The number is 9473 8850.

I also think a good sports physician would be good in helping to manage your overall rehab. At the moment I'm doing rehab for my knee, ankle and shoulder. My sports physician is really good in helping me to work out what is most important.

Let us know how you go !!

Relating to the above and other postings, can anybody tell me who is Julian Fellers "preferred sports physician" at Olympic Park to help me see Julian quicker. When I rang his secretary last friday, I was told that I couldn't see Julian until October, thats 5 MONTHS AWAY!!!!
All I am wanting is a second opinion regarding LARS surgery to my acl injury. Does anyone know if Julian practises LARS. It was recommended by one of HIS associate doctors (Cameron Norsworthy).

I'm in a hard place right now, do I risk LARS (synthetic) surgery and get back to work quicker (I work in the fitness industry) or do I put myself through the tried and tested surgery and double my rehab period. So confusing for me...

Thanks, jnrburgers

[jnrburgers]

Sorry, posted this without reading most recent message. Will try Andrew Jowett as Sports physician. What happens when you get the appointment, do I come out and say that I want to be referred to Julian? Or is it kinda automatic? Thanks again.

[kjwilkin]

Any of the sports physicians will be able to refer you to Julian Feller. Mine is Andrew Jowett and is really good with knees.

Just explain that you've already had an opinion and want a referral to Julian.

If you explain that you have an ACL injury you should be able to get into see Julian earlier than October. In most cases you will get into see Julian earlier at Olympic Park, usually within about a month.

Personally I wouldn't have the LARS technique. It has been banned in France and obviously for a good reason.

[HLj]

I too have been considering a LARS graft. Like the idea of quicker rehab with fewer problems with donating my hamstrings. I have been to see Chris Kondogiannis in East Melbourne as well as Cam Norsworthy. Chris has done a few posterior cruciates with the LARS, but not many anteriors. He did say that there are potential benefits, but not as tried and true as using hamstrings etc. He was pretty easy to talk to a seemed to know what he was on about. He might be worth getting a second opinion.

Personally, still not sure which way I'll go.

[kjwilkin]

If you want to see someone that is a guru with ACL recos, Julian Feller is the man. I believe he does over 200 a year.

So far this year he's already done one Collingwood footballer and one Essendon footballer. Also did a Hawthorn footballer earlier in the year.

[adx]

Hi Everyone.
Great thread.First post here, thought i would share my experiences with my surgeon and the last 3 months in general.

32 years old.Did my ACL on February 26 08 playing indoor soccer. An innocuous change of direction and pop, that was it.
Julian Feller was my surgeon and he was awesome. Professional, and re-assuring... As he also has offices and operates at Latrobe University Private Hospital, i was referred to him by the sports physios at Latrobe Sports Medicine Bundoora (closely linked with Essendon FC i believe). After they diagnosed me with a ruptured acl and requiring a reconstruction, it took me 6 weeks to get an appointment with Julian.

In hindsight, the time waiting to see Julian was a good thing. My physio stressed that i work hard at the gym in strengthening the surrounding muscles, quads, calf and hamstrings, especially quads.

When i had my appointment with julian (april 9 off the top of my head), he was so happy with the strength of the quad/calfs that he operated on me 6 days later!! Operation went perfect. He was there after the operation, and the next morning to greet you and check up on things. . He has specific exercises for you to follow in the literature you recieve from him.3 weeks later in the post op appointment, he checked to make sure the knee was strong and stable.
5 weeks post op now, and after a few ups and downs(downs mostly emotional/psychological) the muscles/movement are coming back well now, i nearly have my proper walking gait, am back at the gym, and doing more and more each day.

I can't recommend him enough for anyone thinking about an acl operation. You might wait a little to see him, but i believe its well worth it.
Hope this helps people..Apologies for the long post. I am just so passionate now about looking after my knee, and health in general..:)

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

I couldn't agree more.

On Thursday I am having a trohleoplasty with Julian. He's been my saviour in enabling me to walk again. One doctor told me I'd never walk again with my patella instability.

Good luck with your rehab. Just follow Julian's protocol and you should be fine !

[anotherACLbitesthedust]

Hi all, I just wanted to add a good word for Dr Iain McLean. He too does AFL footballer knees and reconstructed my knee eight weeks ago. I'm told he has a reputation for being very conservative but also one of the lowest rates of re-injury around. My personal expereince with him has been nothing short of terrific.

I fully ruptured by ACL (netball.. damn it) and he operated eight weeks ago (hammy graft and tightening of the outside ligament). Admittedly I did everything exactly as he told me and now eight weeks later, my knee extension is as good as my other leg and there is only the slightest of differences in my flexion, it is basically there though. I am walking without a limp, have very neat scars (important for the girls... ;) and am in the pool and will be back on my bike outside next week. My physio is also worth a mention, Sam Pietsch and Melb Physio Group. I definatley feel like life is lalmost back to normal (-netball) and from here on in it is just increasing the bike, swim and strength exercises.

If you are in a hurry to get back to your knee twisting sport then Iain McLean may not be best for you. But, if like me you'd rather a a good outcome long term and are happy cycling, walking, swimming etc in the meantime, then he is definately worth considering. He operates at Freemasons (East Melbourne) and Linacre (Hampton) and has rooms in Collins St and Bayside somewhere.

Cheers

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

It's great you found him good, but I didn't have a good experience with him when I got a second opinion. I left his rooms in tears.

I found him to be a bit too old fashioned in his ways and told me I should just put up with my knee. That's hard to take when you're only in your early 30s and need your knee to last a life time.

Last week I had surgery with Julian Feller who I've been seeing for a long time and has done a fanastic job. Already it feels so much better. Julian has been my saviour. Glad I didn't listen to what Iain McLean said.

[dede23]

HI all. Been around this sight for a while and im at wits end with my knee. Iv had 1 definately failed ACL which was redone Feb 07. The last 2 surgeons have said my current ACL is pivoting and my leg continuously feels as thiough the lower leg seperates from the upper leg on walking and esp when i go from movements in dif directions! It grates and craks and not always painful- im accustomd to it now. I am seeing a surgeon tomorrow but i think his opinion will be like it was 3mths ago- nothing he can do. My leg has unstable knee cap, had about 8 or 9 ops (inc 2 ACL recons and patella tendon realignment for instability and scopes for meniscus tears). and he said last time to get scans etx before he wld touch it and to go back to previous surgeon and see what he says. I think he will put me in too hard basket. I have large areas of lost catiledge on knee cap, on the weight baring aspect of femur (patello femoral). Has anyone heard of 3rd ACL's being sucessful? I have got told i dont get a 3rd chance. Im only 26. I cant get knee replacement for another 25yrs and my knee will not hold out with such instability. Any ideas?? It is a work cover issue so payment isnt a prob and i do have priv insurance if that gets me in before work cover (they can just reimburse me and insur compaby after). I am living in Darwin and this surgeon tomorrow is from Adelaide and is aparently pretty gd. I wld like to see Julian Feller but im a bit worried that the wait time will be too long and will have to settle for someone less focused on my specific prob. Not too many that specialise in knee instability issues. Any ideas, opinions wld be helpful. Cheers.

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

You would be better to come down south to see a good knee surgeon. Julian Feller specialises in knee instability and is one of the best in his field. I've been seeing him for a long time with my patella instability and has really helped me.

I have friend who lives in Darwin and was warned against not getting his knee done in Darwin. So, he came down to Melbourne to see my sports physician. He is going to come back down to Melbourne and see Julian Feller if he needs surgery. The number for Olympic Park is (03) 9427 0366.

Your case sounds like quite a difficult one. Julian Feller gets referred a lot of difficult cases and am sure he'd be able to help you. I would also try calling Julian Feller's main rooms at the Epworth. The number is (03) 9038 5200. If you explain your situation they may be able to get you in earlier.

If you see a sports physician at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre you will get into see Julian Feller a lot earlier. Usually the wait is about a month I think.

You only get one set of knees. It is best to see a good knee surgeon from the beginning.

I hope this helps. :)

[dede23]

I saw surgeon today and was told there was nothing he could to do to help. I brought up Julians name and his eyes just went 'where did that name come from!'. Didnt expect it. I tried to get into see sports physician but cant til Sept. Sux. I did ring the receptionist Anita for Feller and she said i could get one from GP. The wait to see Julian is meant to be Nov! She said if i can get a decent referal asking for him to see me earlier then november and what the knee is currently like in current shit state, there may be a way to see him earliear. Its cos its not a ruptured ACL we are dealing with- its overstretched along with all the other issues. He doesnt see wrkcover but i am lucky enough to have insurance so i can use it and then workcover reimburse involved parties. I so badly want a knee that is relatively stable and comfortable so i can return to work. I got support from this sureon to seek out Julian and said if he thinks he can help then go for it. Is it worth seeing more then one dr then Julian just incase Julian doesn want to touch an ready complicated history while in Melb? Im just confused and i guess grasping at straws to get someone to fix what others stuffed up!

[anotherACLbitesthedust]

Re: kjwilkin's comments in response to my earlier post about my great experience with Dr Iain McLean... I think it's important to qualify the type of injury you had because it makes it hard for people looking for a surgeon to compare experiences. It's like comparing apples with oranges...

If we both had the same injury (I had a complete ACL rupture, minor miniscus damage, some outslide ligament laxity) and completely different experiences with the same surgeon, that would be one thing.

But if we have completely different injuries (eg i think in a previous posts you mention you have had patella instability for over 13 years, medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction on one if not both knees, an ankle recon also etc), then it's not suprising that experiences would be different, particularly given Dr McLean is known for being fairly conservative and your surgeon Dr Feller specialises in your particular problem of patella instability.

It's great that you are really happy with your surgeon - I'd just hate people with similar injuries to me to be put off Dr McLean, that's all.

Ciao for now

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

Please don't give up.

I have just called Olympic Park Sports Medicine centre and would be able to get an appointment with Andrew Jowett, a sports physician just after the long weekend in June. He works very closely with Julian Feller so may have a better chance of getting in to see Julian Feller earlier. As I said before you will get into see Julian Feller a lot earlier if you see him at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre. Andrew Jowett regularly assists Julian Feller. Try Olympic Park to get an appointment with Andrew Jowett. The number is 03 9427 0366.

One of my friends is now seeing Julian Feller after he saw her scans and referral from her previous surgeon. Once he'd seen them she got in within a month. I'm sure he'd be able to help you.

By the way anotherACLbites the dust, my experience with your surgeon had nothing to do with my injury. He pretty much just disregarded what I said about my situation and was totally out of touch. It was almost as if he wanted me to live my life in a wheelchair !! Also Julian Feller specialises in ACL recos, patella instability and knee arthritis.

Dede23, I hope this helps. :)

[dede23]

I have GP appointment with GP to get referal for Julian despite my physio suggesting I actually go to sydney though Leo Pinczewski/Justin Roe who work under Merv Cross who is one of the earlier pioneers of ACL. They deal with knee instability too. I am going to get the referal for all three and see where i fall. Julians receptionist said that i can go to GP as we only have one sports physicans in the NT and its the end of Sept for an appointment. Its devestating if things were urgent up here!! I am crossing fingers things start to pan out as im over it totally. I thought maybe knee had miraculously fixed it self as had no instability and no grating but it started today again. So much for positive healing! Hpfly things look up and i get the go ahead from my workcover company to go interstate. Ive sought all options in SA (there arent any gd knee specialists residing in NT). Can only wait now i guess. Just hope the cards fall my way and life improves. Its very debilitating when u only have 1 knee functioning and doctors are continuosly being told there isnt anything they can do so live with it. Im 26- not 56 and can retire!

[kjwilkin]

So glad to hear you aren't giving up. Once you get the GP referral I would recommend sending copies of your scans and operations to Julian's rooms. That way he may look at them and get you an earlier appointment.

A lot of knee surgeons specialise in ACL surgery, but not a lot specialise in patella instability. He is probably the best in the country, attends a lot of conferences overseas and has done some papers with some of the top knee surgeons for patella instability overseas. He is also up with latest techniques.

I will try and send you a PM too.

Good luck !!! :)

[kjwilkin]

Dede23,

Just tried sending you a personal message but says you've opted not to receive them. You may want to change your profile.

[dede23]

I have changed my settings but hopefully it works for Priv messages. I spoke to Julians receptionist Anita. She said i wld need to fax all referal and MRI/xray reports for julian to see. If the report doesnt say an ACL rupture I will have to wait til Nov to see him. Thats stupid. I still have an ACL issue and dont think it warrents a 5 month wait to get appointment. She also said even if i fund my own surgery- (its a workcover but as he isnt a W/C seeing dr, i need to self fund it then reclaim it back) he wont correspond with workcover fullstop so then that rules out him as a surgeon as the workcover ppl need a letter before surgery and after regading out comes etc for return to work. Im considering Cameron Norsworthy who works in with Julian in same practice because of he does workcover. What do i do? Im very disappointed at the moment. I thort that it would be somewhat less stressfull. Do i persue Julian and request he does this as a once off or take a chance with Norsworthy??? I dont know of him and cant find a lot on him. What do u suggest??

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

I would persue Julian. Don't know anything about the other surgeon. Julian has the experience that you need.

As I've said before if you see a sports physician at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre you will be able to see Julian Feller a lot earlier. The wait is usually a month. Also, they may be able to get you in earlier.

[dede23]

Julian is out of my plan at the mo- he will not correspond with work cover at all so they will not allow me to see him. Maybe once this is all over i will get to see him. I am considering one of his collegues Cameron Norsworthy but i have to prove to W/C that these guys have something different to offer me then what the others havent and the chances of this being successful. Otherwise im left to either suffer or use health insurance and not get paid. Im considering options and may need to seek legal advice as to where i stand. How do i know if they can help me if i cant get there to see me??? I need a surgeon who will be able to offer something different like- 1) synthetic ACLS, 2) donor ACLS and 3) does patella stablisation surgery. My ligaments are somewhat lax and too stretchy to be of great benefit. I have GP who i am seeing tuesday to discuss this. My physio has basically said he cant support me going interstate as he is unaware of anything these surgeons go in order to supprt that theory. Does any1 know any surgeons who deal with anything different to normal patella or hammy tendon ACLS? synthetic acls? patella realignment surgery?? OH GOD. Life is not meant to be this painful.

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

I have a suggestion for you. Rather than trying to guess who to go and see I would come down to Melbourne to see a good sports physician at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre. They should know who deals with workcover and the best one to go for your problem.

Will send you details of my sports physician in a private message.

Hope this helps.

[dede23]

I have GP aptmnt Tuesday and will discuss my options with him. I am tossing up whether i come to melbourne and see Cameron Norsworthy or go see Justin Joe/ Merv Cross in Sydney. I have a fight on hands with Workcover and i might need to seek legal advice as to where i stand. I am at a standstill and am not sure. I know the sydney guys have done the patella stabilisation surgeries (julian has too) and deal with work cover. I am going to discuss it thoroughly with fiance and see what i should do. He thinks i should go to sydney. Also i know more of these guys then Norsworthy- nothing on the web to give me much direction. I know Merv is getting on in age but has had fantastic results even at his age. Unfort Julian is out of plan- workcover wnt let me see sm1 if they wont correspond with them with treatment and proposed surgery and post op reports. I know he is busy but if money isnt an issue, u wld think he wld jump at the chance. My leg is so complex every1 has thrown hands up and said 'too hard, go away and live with it'. Been to 5 in last 3yrs. Im due to have my long head bicep reattatched and possibly a recon in the L) shoulder so i just want to get leg sorted out so i can walk without fear of tripping and reinjuring leg. meant to have been back in March but had to postpone it till its sorted out. Im ugghhhhh. Thanks for ur support and ideas. Life isnt meant to be difficult. Im going to be on this like there is no tomorrow. Im gunna seek further advice as to where i stand as W/C refusing further treatment if i cant find sm1 who can do something different then previoussurgeons im not going to be sent interstate. But what do i do up in the NT with no real access to top specialists???????

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

If I was you I'd still send your referral letter and copy of scan reports to Julian Feller. He may do it as a one off, you just don't know that. He doesn't normally do TAC either, but decided to take on my friend's case that is difficult. He is the one that make the decisions, not his admin staff.

The fact is that Julian specialises in patella instability and is the best for this problem.

You obviously have a lot going on and need to get this sorted out ASAP.

[jankids]

sam patten epworth richmond is an excellent surgeon for knee and Hip injuries
9429 5995

[jnrburgers]

Hi there,

I have a suggestion for you. Rather than trying to guess who to go and see I would come down to Melbourne to see a good sports physician at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre. They should know who deals with workcover and the best one to go for your problem.

Will send you details of my sports physician in a private message.

Hope this helps.
Hi dede23,
kjwilkin is correct about getting into see julian quicker by going thru Olympic Park. She/He also recommended I go thru the same source for my acl injury after being told by his PA that I would need to wait until Sept. I have my appointment with him in two days. So thank you kjwilkin!

If it's any help I have seen Cameron Norsworthy, I found him very personable. He suggested a LARS artificial graft for my ACL injury. Due to controversy over the procedure, I am seeing Julian as a 2nd referral and if Julian was available to perform the operation I would go with him. As much as I like Cameron, he seems quite young so he wouldn't have the experience that Julian has and I don't know what he specialises in other than ACL injury.

Also, from what I've heard about Julian, he enjoys the challenge of a complex problem. My friend had a knee instability problem exasperated by other surgeons who made a complete wreck trying to fix it. My friend now sings the praises for Julian Feller as do other ppl in this thread.

I know there's WC issues but if you can get thru to Julian I'm sure he would listen.

Good luck and keep us up to date.
:o

[dede23]

Wel, i finally got approval to go to SYdney. I was going to see Julian but the politics of getting Julian to partake in the workcover rigmoral. No go. I am seeing Merv cross and Justin ROe depending on the result of the 1st. Might as well see them both while in sydney as it costs $$$ to fly from the NT. Im hoping one will be able to help fix my screwed up leg. July the 2nd/3rd is aptmnt days. I have more bad days then gd days lately. I think most of it is kneecap stuff (i only have bone left at the back) and need a replacement but i am to young so someone has to do something to help me. Will have to cross fingers and hope for best. Im freaking out of how to find way around sydney. I have sat nav so thats ok. Just trying to find accomodation in proximity to crows nest but where is that????????? Ugh. Give me Adelaide anyday! Know it like the back of my hand!

[jellybean]

Hi Dede

Good to hear that you've received approval to go to Sydney. The OS's at NSOSMC are generally excellent (Leo Pincewski - Justin's mentor - and David Wood are also there), so you should be in good hands.

With regards to getting around Sydney - yes, it's a bit freaky when you're first exposed to it. I moved here from Perth and used to get lost just about every time I left home when I first arrived (and soon learnt to drive VERY assertively and to start off at lights in less than a nanosecond to avoid being honked at by a hassled Sydneysider - alas, now I am one!). In terms of navigation, your sat nav should help you out (just don't listen to it if you're in the tunnel - under Sydney Harbour - and it tells you to do a u-turn - an impossible feat - it happened in a friend's car).

Crows Nest is next to North Sydney - the first suburb on your left after you cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge (or tunnel) after leaving the city. If you're driving, stay in the left hand lanes after the bridge/tunnel and you'll be ok).

In terms of accommodation, just Google - Accommodation - Crows Nest and look for something in your budget.

If you are only going to Sydney for your appointments and don't otherwise need a car, you could also travel by train and cab. Below are the instructions for getting to North Sydney that were given to some participants in a workshop I ran last year (at the North Sydney Harbourview Hotel). Crows Nest and NSOSMC is not far from there (short cab ride or a bit of a walk if you're ok with that).

'For interstate visitors the easiest/cheapest way to get to the North Sydney Harbourview Hotel is to catch the train from Sydney Domestic airport to NORTH SYDNEY.
Take train to CENTRAL and then get on North Shore line (I think Platform 16). Take train to North Sydney (second stop after crossing Sydney Harbour Bridge).
Go up stairs and turn right-that will take you to Harbourview Hotel.

Hope it all goes well.

Cheers,

JB

[kjwilkin]

Hi Jnrburgers,

How did you get on with Julian Feller ?

Am keen to hear how you got on.

[jnrburgers]

Hi Jnrburgers,

How did you get on with Julian Feller ?

Am keen to hear how you got on.

Thanks for you interest kjwilkin,
Yes, I eventually saw him. As you may remember, I had originally seen one of his associates, Cameron Norsworthy. He suggested that I am a good candidate for the LARS procedure (synthetic graft). Because there has been so much hype around the procedure, I have been rather nervous about going down this track. So I asked Julian how he felt about it. He told me straight out that he doesn't perform that operation, not because he is "anti" LARS, only because he is being "cautious" especially after the problems of the eighties. He agreed that I'm probably a good candidate and LARS has shown good results so far, but there hasn't been enough time to fully assess. He said that he may well be performing the new synthetic graft technique in the future.

My decision? I've decided to go with the LARS as I was leaning towards the LARS before I went to Julian. If he had been anti-LARS I would have had the operation by traditional method. I now have an appointment with Cameron to get a hospital date organised. Will keep all updated as I know there must be more ppl out there questioning the LARS technique.

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

Had a feeling he would probably say that. Personally I would go with Julian as he specialises in knees, where as I understand Cameron Norsworthy is more of a generalist.

Let us know how you go.

[dede23]

Thanx jelly bean for all that advice for sydney. I am now dealing with a freak accident at home which ended up with cutting half my finger nail and finger off- too much missing to stitch. Ouchies tonight. Im sure it will be ok when going to sydney. Hopefuly it will heal and nail grow back. Im looking at the Medina crows nest- $130 a night. looks ok. On limited $$ thst workcover refund so..... I have a total of $170 inc meals a day. Transport is seperate so im lucky there. Just hoping sydney isnt too pricey. Only been to airport thats it. got aptmnt on the 2nd with Justin Roe and 3rd with Merv Cross. Might as well see both while there and then its worth the trip. If im not happy with the 1st then at least got 2nd chance while there. Fingers crossed they can fix it. Keep u posted.....

[jnrburgers]

Hi there,

Had a feeling he would probably say that. Personally I would go with Julian as he specialises in knees, where as I understand Cameron Norsworthy is more of a generalist.

Let us know how you go.

Well, I work in the fitness industry and getting back to work sooner is the goal I had in mind. Cameron has done around 20 of the LARS ACL operations so far. Julian could only think of one other doctor that performed them in Melb. It's 4 months against 9. A big difference in the fitness industry, I can hold my classes for 4 months but not 9.

[jnrburgers]

I too have been considering a LARS graft. Like the idea of quicker rehab with fewer problems with donating my hamstrings. I have been to see Chris Kondogiannis in East Melbourne as well as Cam Norsworthy. Chris has done a few posterior cruciates with the LARS, but not many anteriors. He did say that there are potential benefits, but not as tried and true as using hamstrings etc. He was pretty easy to talk to a seemed to know what he was on about. He might be worth getting a second opinion.

Personally, still not sure which way I'll go.

Have you made your decision yet HLj?

[jellybean]

Thanx jelly bean for all that advice for sydney. I am now dealing with a freak accident at home which ended up with cutting half my finger nail and finger off- too much missing to stitch. Ouchies tonight. Im sure it will be ok when going to sydney. Hopefuly it will heal and nail grow back. Im looking at the Medina crows nest- $130 a night. looks ok. On limited $$ thst workcover refund so..... I have a total of $170 inc meals a day. Transport is seperate so im lucky there. Just hoping sydney isnt too pricey. Only been to airport thats it. got aptmnt on the 2nd with Justin Roe and 3rd with Merv Cross. Might as well see both while there and then its worth the trip. If im not happy with the 1st then at least got 2nd chance while there. Fingers crossed they can fix it. Keep u posted.....

No worries!

Re your accommodation - if you try wotif.com or lastminute.com.au you may get even better room rates (when booking see if they charge extra for having a car there overnight - if you are hiring a car - alot of places do)

Re transport - another option there (door to door service and no worrying about traffic, tolls, how to get there, parking) is to take an airport shuttle bus to and from your accommodation - two options on the North Shore (the area you'll be) are:

Airport Shuttle Bus North Sydney
http://www.airbus.com.au/

Airport Shuttle North
www.airportshuttlenorth.com

I think you can book online with both and the fares are only about $35 each way. The websites should tell you the meeting points at the airport. Hassle free!

RE your finger - not good but you'll be amazed how much of it grows back! I did the same but only lopped off the pad of my finger not the nail. It was a significant chunk and I thought I'd be left with a really deformed looking finger but most of it, including alot of the finger print, grew back.

Hope everything goes well.

Cheers,

JB

[kjwilkin]

Well, I work in the fitness industry and getting back to work sooner is the goal I had in mind. Cameron has done around 20 of the LARS ACL operations so far. Julian could only think of one other doctor that performed them in Melb. It's 4 months against 9. A big difference in the fitness industry, I can hold my classes for 4 months but not 9.

That's a fair call. However, I think you need to look at the long term future. Personally I would never have the LARS procedure. There was a Melbourne Storm player that had the LARS technique this year, developed an infection and ended up having to have the traditional reco done.

In France this operation is actually banned. They obviously do it for a reason.

Julian Feller obviously has good reasons why he doesn't do this operation at present.

Perhaps before deciding which way to go you could find out when you would be able to get back to your fitness classes if you had the traditional reco. I'm sure it wouldn't be 9 months. That is normally the timeframe when returning to sport.

Good luck in what you decide. :)

[jnrburgers]

That's a fair call. However, I think you need to look at the long term future. Personally I would never have the LARS procedure. There was a Melbourne Storm player that had the LARS technique this year, developed an infection and ended up having to have the traditional reco done.

In France this operation is actually banned. They obviously do it for a reason.

Julian Feller obviously has good reasons why he doesn't do this operation at present.

Perhaps before deciding which way to go you could find out when you would be able to get back to your fitness classes if you had the traditional reco. I'm sure it wouldn't be 9 months. That is normally the timeframe when returning to sport.

Good luck in what you decide. :)
Well, just repeating his words on why he doesn't do it..."I'm being cautious!" He is not against the procedure at all. In fact he said if it was around in Australia a few years back he would have performed it on a high profile footballer. In regard to banning the procedure in France, Julian does not know why they banned it there and I can't find anything on the internet about why it's been banned in France. I have researched as far as I can with LARS and I can't find any negative outcomes with the exception that it just hasn't been around long enough and the failures of the eighties grafts. But it has been around in Europe for about 8 years, so surely we would be hearing some negatives by now? And besides, Julian told me that with the traditional method things can go wrong. So if something does go wrong with the LARS graft, I'm sure it can be fixed the traditional way, well that's the understanding I received from Julian. So call me silly, but in regard to less trauma on the knee, therefore less rehab and quicker recovery, I am choosing LARS. I know there's a risk but in my mind the benefits outweigh the risk. And I'm crossing everything that it will be successful long term. I'm seeing Cameron middle of July.

[dede23]

Thanks JELLYBEAN. I have now bit the bullet and booked accomo at the CHifley in Potts Point, Sydney. Got $120 a night and im happy with that. In a delux rm. For sydney thats a bargain i think. Im bout 12km from airport and about 8km from North SYdney Ortho & Sports Med Centre in Crows Nest to see Justin Roe and Merv Cross on consecutive days. Im a lil nervous being in sydney on own but i just hope i can get out and have a look around and atleast get a glimpse of harbour. ALso my check in isnt til 3pm and my flight is arriving at 6.30am so hopefully they can hold luggage till then. It sux really. FInger is healing slowly after incident with MEAT CLEAVER! but unfort my 6mth old puppy thinks its a toy and jumps to try and pull it because its bandaged and is white. Lil bugga. I really hope these two surgeon can come up with some sort of plan to help my leg. I must admit i feel im at the end of the road for help but i can only take this last ditch effort to see if i am. I might just need to have regular scopes to clear it out and getreplacement earlier then they plan. Ive regained my hyperextension on this 2nd recon so not sure if can fix that. I have gd days and a few gr8 days but then i get slammed with the bleak days with pain, kneecap instability and joint instability. FINGERS CROSSED I GET MY WISH OF A FAIRY GOD SURGEON with the skills i need.

[jellybean]

Thanks JELLYBEAN. I have now bit the bullet and booked accomo at the CHifley in Potts Point, Sydney. Got $120 a night and im happy with that. In a delux rm. For sydney thats a bargain i think. Im bout 12km from airport and about 8km from North SYdney Ortho & Sports Med Centre in Crows Nest to see Justin Roe and Merv Cross on consecutive days. Im a lil nervous being in sydney on own but i just hope i can get out and have a look around and atleast get a glimpse of harbour. ALso my check in isnt til 3pm and my flight is arriving at 6.30am so hopefully they can hold luggage till then. It sux really. FInger is healing slowly after incident with MEAT CLEAVER! but unfort my 6mth old puppy thinks its a toy and jumps to try and pull it because its bandaged and is white. Lil bugga. I really hope these two surgeon can come up with some sort of plan to help my leg. I must admit i feel im at the end of the road for help but i can only take this last ditch effort to see if i am. I might just need to have regular scopes to clear it out and getreplacement earlier then they plan. Ive regained my hyperextension on this 2nd recon so not sure if can fix that. I have gd days and a few gr8 days but then i get slammed with the bleak days with pain, kneecap instability and joint instability. FINGERS CROSSED I GET MY WISH OF A FAIRY GOD SURGEON with the skills i need.

Hey Dede,

I probably should have been more explicit in my last post - in recommending that you look at wotif or last minute or similar, I meant that you might be able to get a better room rate for accommodation in Crows Nest (i.e. close to NSOSMC). Potts Point, while 8km sounds like a short distance (to those of us who come from places like Adelaide, Perth..) is actually a significant way from NSOSMC (in Sydney you judge travel by time not distance) - from Potts Point you need to go through the CBD and across the Harbour before you get to Crows Nest. With the traffic, that could take a significant period of time. Being next to Kings Cross, Potts Point is also not really the safest place to choose. To minmise hassles, I strongly recommend you look at staying in or nearby Crows Nest (i.e., the other side of the harbour). The Medina sounds like it is ok. I've since remembered that there is also a motel almost next door to the NSOSMC called the Sovereign Inn - I think that it is basic but clean and you could hop to the NSOSMC from there! There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby. You could also catch a bus into the city from there (or go down to Luna Park). Add airport shuttle buses to and from the airport and you minimise any hassles (and cost).

Re storing your bags after your early arrival - most places have storage facilities to accommodate that (ask when you book).

Re your shoulder (we are very alike - knee, shoulder, finger problems!!) - have you thought about seeing if it is possible to make an apointment with someone here while you are here? If you were after a sports/rehabilitation physician (rather than an OS) to give you thorough advice on the best way forward for your shoulder - I highly recommend Seamus Dalton (also at NSOSMC but in the building next door to the orthpods and imaging people). If you're after a surgeon, Mark Perko (NSOSMC) is supposed to be good and does shoulders and elbows. There are other very good shoulder surgeons in Sydney at other practices (e.g, David Sonnabend, Jerome Goldberg, Des Bokor).

'Hope it all goes well. If you have any more q's just ask. I would offer to help you out next week but I travel alot with work and will be interstate (Brisbane and Canberra) the days you are here.

Cheers,

JB

[dede23]

Cheers for all ur help! I have unfort already booked into the Chifely on victoria st )crnr Darlinhurst rd i think) potts point. Im not too fussed as i get reimbursed for travel, and accomo. I realise that its more time then km but i cldnt get into Soverign inn and this seemed one of the more comfy places. I realise its near Kings Cross( i think) but i dnt plan on being out and about after dark nor do i intend on venturing that far on own. I prob wldnt bother going to Lunar as aptmtn are mid- day times so defeats purpose. Might get to go to Harbour tho. As long as i get a photo of the bridge and stuff- im a happy camper. I get to store my stuff until check in time if rm nt available yet at this place so thats gr8 for me. 2 more sleeps before i fly out and hopefully get this all sorted. Yeah i wld like to see a specialist while there but gunna have to be another trip. Just dont have the energy to do every body part while there. Im just gunna focus on this and hopefully get it right then get down to the other parts!! Thanx for ur help and support. Im sure it wont be as bad being in sydney on own as i think! Aslong as i have accomo, transport and basic supplies im all gd to go. Let you know how i go. Got BB access at hotel so thats a bonus. 10th floor and up is free! Yay. Atleast i wont go crazy in hotel rm now! Yep, the old body aint what it used to be- 26 aint old but cert feel it! Joints of a 50 yr old i think. Night all and keep u posted.

[jellybean]

Cheers for all ur help! I have unfort already booked into the Chifely on victoria st )crnr Darlinhurst rd i think) potts point. Im not too fussed as i get reimbursed for travel, and accomo. I realise that its more time then km but i cldnt get into Soverign inn and this seemed one of the more comfy places. I realise its near Kings Cross( i think) but i dnt plan on being out and about after dark nor do i intend on venturing that far on own. I prob wldnt bother going to Lunar as aptmtn are mid- day times so defeats purpose. Might get to go to Harbour tho. As long as i get a photo of the bridge and stuff- im a happy camper. I get to store my stuff until check in time if rm nt available yet at this place so thats gr8 for me. 2 more sleeps before i fly out and hopefully get this all sorted. Yeah i wld like to see a specialist while there but gunna have to be another trip. Just dont have the energy to do every body part while there. Im just gunna focus on this and hopefully get it right then get down to the other parts!! Thanx for ur help and support. Im sure it wont be as bad being in sydney on own as i think! Aslong as i have accomo, transport and basic supplies im all gd to go. Let you know how i go. Got BB access at hotel so thats a bonus. 10th floor and up is free! Yay. Atleast i wont go crazy in hotel rm now! Yep, the old body aint what it used to be- 26 aint old but cert feel it! Joints of a 50 yr old i think. Night all and keep u posted.

Hey Dede,

Sounds like yoiu're organised! You'll be fine!

I know exactly what you mean by prioritising body parts! (most critical first) and sometimes feeling a whole lot older than you are! I had two lots of surgery on my knee in 2006 and, when my OS saw me immediately after the first one, told me that "that knee has seen some action!" and "it is about 30 years older than you are!" (I've got Grade 3 changes throughout the medial compartment of my knee and the back of my patella). But I'm managing it fine. My shoulders also need some attention but I'm putting it off - too busy with other things.

'Hope everything goes well. Look forward to hearing about it.

Cheers,

JB

[kjwilkin]

Hi Dede23/Jellybean,

Can I suggest you start a new thread. This is meant to be for Melbourne knee specialists !

I have nothing against Sydney specialists, but I just know that my specialist is the best in Australia for patella problems. There may be specialists that may be able to help you in Sydney.

[jellybean]

Hi Dede23/Jellybean,

Can I suggest you start a new thread. This is meant to be for Melbourne knee specialists !

I have nothing against Sydney specialists, but I just know that my specialist is the best in Australia for patella problems.

Hi KJ,

Take your point, no harm intended or done (the discussion just evolved). I see Dede has started a new thread.

Cheers,

JB

[HLj]

Have you made your decision yet HLj?

Going traditional. Apparently LARS is better done within the first weeks of injury. Something to do with using the healing potential of the freshly ruptured ACL. Given I have procrastinated for so long, I figured I should cut my losses and go a bit more tried and true. I'll cope with the slightly longer rehab.

[stok]

Hi guys im new to the forum and i just underwent an ACL reconstruction using LARS. Cameron Norsworthy performed my op and so far so good. I hurt my knee in january and i only had my knee done 3 weeks ago. Camreon was unsure of whether he would use LARS or not and said that he would make his decision once he assessed the damage via arthroscope. Usually surgeons would not use the method due to the time between injury and op, but the ACL was healthy enough to use LARS. I am so happy with my knee post op, 3 weeks on and almost a full range of motion and no limp although the swelling is posing a problem; which is expected.

I was worried and didn't know whether to go ahead with the LARS but i've found that its been wonderful, to anyone contemplating it, im one of the few thats all for it, but in the end it's up to the individual.

All the best!

[Judoturtle]

LARS sounds great...if I ever need another acl job I'm going to look into it for sure Stok!

[ang]

I need to get a reconstruction on my ACL.
I was wondering if anyone had heard anything about peter hannon?

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

Not heard anything about him. Where does he consult and operate ?

Whereabouts are you based in Melbourne ?

[ang]

I'm based in bayside.
He operates from linacre in hampton.
I'm also a bit limited in time.
everyone seems to be talking about julian feller, however he has a 6 month waiting list.

[kjwilkin]

Not if you see a sports physician at Olympic Park first and see him there. Personally I would see someone who has done a lot of ACL reconstructions.

[ang]

thanks heaps for that!
i'll give them a try.

[kjwilkin]

The number is 9427 0366. Try Andrew Jowett, he's a great sports physician and is mine too.

[Nath11]

Have just found out I need a acl reco - have been recommended Tim Whitehead - anyone had an op by Tim?? Any help appreciated!!

[kjwilkin]

I would go to someone like Julian Feller or Hayden Morris that is more experienced. You can see both quicker by seeing a sports physician at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre first. For Julian the wait is usually only a couple of weeks. I've seen Julian for a long time and he is fantastic.

[timmykangar]

Has anyone had an ACL reconstruction with Andrew Shimmin of the Melbourne Ortho Group. He was recommended to me by Gary Zimmerman.

[kjwilkin]

Personally, I wouldn't see anyone at the Melbourne Orthopaedic Group for knees. I would go to someone that specialises in knees. If you see a sports physician at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre they will refer you to someone good and the top of their field.

[timmykangar]

kjwilkin, I notice you strongly recommend the Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre throughout this thread, do you work there or do you have an interest in the centre. What dealings have you had with other centres do you know of bad reports from Melb Ortho group.

[kjwilkin]

No, I just have had bad experience with the Melbourne Orthopaedic Group for my knee. A friend has had bad experience their too with her knee. She has had to go to my knee surgeon to have her knee re-done. I do go there for my shoulder though as Greg Hoy is the best in Melbourne for my problem.

I don't work at Olympic Park or have an interest in it. Over time I have had a number of injuries and took a long time to find the right people to treat me. It is probably the best sports medicine clinic in Melbourne and the most experienced and qualified staff.

In addition to my own injuries I am a sports trainer, so have got to know the ones that a lot of sports clubs use.

Hope this helps.

[soccerknees]

Hi guys,

What a great site, just stumbled onto it trying to explain to a work colleague what an ACL reco is.

I've had both knees done, both ACL ruptures and both using the patella tendon graft method.

Both ops were performed by Ian Henderson in 1994 (left knee) and 2000 (right knee).

As others here have said his bedside manner is non existant but the guy is a brilliant surgeon and arguably IMHO the best in Melbourne. I have returned to competitive soccer after 9 months on both occasions with only the usual minor soreness. It does take about 2 years before your knee feels 'normal' again during sport.

He will answer any questions you have but don't go in there unprepared and expect him to start explaining the surgery and what not because he won't.

However I wasn't looking for a buddy but a brilliant surgeon.

I cannot recommend him highly enough.

[deeKnee]

Hi,

I have experienced 4-5 dislocations in the last 6 years. I have tried physio and it doesnt seem to work. I am now decided to go in for surgery.

I have got two opinions so far. One is for MPFL reconstruction and the other is Fulkerson. I am confused and want to take a couple more opinions. Would anyone be able to recommend a couple of good patella specialists in Sydney.

Thanks,

Dee

[kjwilkin]

Hi Dee,

My advice is to not get too many opinions as you will get very confused.

Seeing a good sports physician may be a good start. 4 to 5 dislocations in the last 6 years is not much. I have experienced that over a week, sometimes in a day.

I would urge you to try everything conservatively first before considering surgery.

Have you tried McConnell taping, clinical pilates and a structured gym program ? All of these things can really help.

[deeKnee]

Thanks

One OS in india and another one here have recommended suregery. I tried physio for a year. But I think I want to go ahead with surgery. I just want one other opinion to make the decision. Unfortunately, I dont know any good specialists here as I lived most of my life outside aus.

[kjwilkin]

Hi Dee,

In Sydney, Justin Roe and Merv Cross have a special interest in patella problems. Merv Cross is a much older surgeon while Justin is a lot younger.

When you tried physio did you have a specialised program that focused on your quads, glutes and hip muscles ? These are all very important for patella stability.

If you haven't tried taping and bracing I would also try that.

Good luck.

[deeKnee]

Yes, the program was targeted on those areas.

I am getting confused each day. I have been researching a lot and MPFL reconstrcution is said to be a new technique that is very effective. However, I met a couple of doctors here and they both suggested to making changes to my bone and fixing it with two screws apart from the tissue work.

Thanks for the info on the docs. I'll try and see them

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

Sorry you are getting really confused. It is really important to find a surgeon that specialises in patella problems.

I've had a MPFL reconstruction and was very effective, but depends on your own anatomy. Have you had any CT scans done ? This will be the telling story.

Before my knee surgeon decided on further surgery he got some CT scans to see which kind of surgery would be best sorted in my case.

If you have no luck in Sydney I would consider coming to Melbourne. My knee surgeon specialises in patella problems and is great.

[deeKnee]

Thanks,

Would you be able to ask your doctor to recommend a good patella specialist in Sydney. So far, I have met the following-
Dr. Peter Walker
Dr. Bruce Caldwell
Dr. Danniel Biggs

A leading OS in india, recommended MPFL reconstruction to me. I would love to get it done there as I can trust him. He has treated my family members who live there and has a modern outlook. Somehow, non of the surgerons here suggested MPFL recon to me.

Dr. Biggs said MPFL repair, but I am not sure if thats the same as reconstruction.

Thanks

[deeKnee]

Oh and I do have CT scans and MRIs, but the doctors here dont seem to look too much into it.

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

I would actually come down to Melbourne to see Julian Feller. He specialises in patella problems and looks very closely at the CT scans. They will give him the best idea of what surgery is going to work for you. He also closely looks at plain x-rays, but usually doesn't get patients to have MRIs for patella problems unless there are other problems. A lot of elite footballers have come to see him from interstate.

He does a lot of the MPFL recos. I had one with him about 10 years ago and is still going well.

If you decided to come to Melbourne you would get in to see him earlier if you see a sports physician at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre and referred to him. He works out of Olympic Park most Wednesday afternoons.

From some research and talking to people in the industry Justin Roe and Merv Cross are the best for patella problems in Sydney.

[deeKnee]

Thanks! I wish i could come down to melbourne. But I am really tied up with uni and work. I would prefer to do it in Sydney as the follow up would be easier too. There has to be a good OS here with experience in MPFL recon. I am inclined toward Dr. Daniel Biggs, i just wish I could find someone who has been treated by him before.

If I can ask you about ur MPFL recon, did he take a piece of tendon from elsewhere and then reinforce it? Or did he repair it using guide pins? Did u get a distal realignment as well?

[kjwilkin]

Hi Deepa,

I would really encourage you to see Justin Roe or Merv Cross as they specialise in patella problems. It is so important to go to someone that specialises in patella problems. Both of these surgeons have treated a lot of elite athletes too, which says a lot too.

This kind of surgery is very specialised and you need to have someone that really knows what they are doing. Otherwise, your outcome may not be as good as it could be.

They took part of my hamstring for the graft. It has worked really well.

Please don't rush into your decision.

[deeKnee]

Thanks for all the advise. i need it!

My back up option is the surgeon in India coz he specializes in Knee issues and has treated family successfully. But I am really keen on getting it done here. Sydney is my home now. I want to recover here and make use of all that private insurance I pay!

3 out of the 4 doctors I have seen are knee specialist with interest in Patella Instability. I have taken ur suggestion and booked an appointment with Justin Roe. I wish I could get some review on Dr. Daniel Biggs. He specialises in Knee arthrescopy and patella problems. He suggested the MPFL re-alightment to me. He said something about using guide pins and not graft to repair the torn MPFL. This is different to a MPFL recon. For me, my livelihood doesnt depend on sport. I just want to be able to work at the gym and continue learning latin american dancing. I hope it all works out!

[kjwilkin]

Hi Deepa,

Keen to hear what Justin Roe has to say. When do you see him ?

Some surgeons think they have an interest in patella problems, but unless they actually get CT scans and plain x-rays done they obviously don't do a lot of that type of surgery. It depends on each person's anatomy as to what type of surgery is best.

Don't like the sound of the surgery that has been recommended to you with the MPFL.

One option would be to see Julian Feller in Melbourne and have follow up with a good sports physician in Sydney. John Orchard is meant to be very good with knees.

[deeKnee]

I see Justin on Tuesday next week. I will let u know how it went.

[kjwilkin]

Good luck. Let us know how you go.

[auua1995]

The number is 9427 0366. Try Andrew Jowett, he's a great sports physician and is mine too.

Andrew Jowett is currently away. Would you recommend anybody else?

Thanks in advance.

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

He is back in a week. So, definitely worth the wait. Dr Paul Blackman is also very good, but his wait will be longer.

Hope this helps.

[<andrew>]

My local GP has suggested seeing a sports physician, Dr Peter Fuller for my knee problem. Does anyone have any experience with him?

Thanks.

[kjwilkin]

Sorry, no experience with him. Definitely recommend Dr Andrew Jowett or Dr Paul Blackman at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre. It is considered one of the best sports medicine centres in Melbourne.

[auua1995]

Hi there,

He is back in a week. So, definitely worth the wait. Dr Paul Blackman is also very good, but his wait will be longer.

Hope this helps.

Thanks a lot,

Should I have the X-rays or MRI done before I see him so he can have a better picture?

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

I wouldn't bother getting anything done. They will be able to determine what scans will be necessary or if anything at all.

Good luck !

[auua1995]

Thanks again!

Would I need a referral from a GP to see Andrew?

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

No you don't. Just ring up and make an appointment. The number is 9427 0366. They are open from 8am to 8pm Monday to Thursday and 8am to 6pm Friday as well as Saturday morning.

[LHaines]

Has anyone had any esperience with Andrew Shimmin Or Paul Burns or Ian Henderson?

I'm planning on having an ACL reco soon and am probably going to go to one of the 3?

Thanks

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

I definitely would suggest Andrew Shimmin out of the three. However, I understand that he is not a knee specialist. You are better off going to someone that just does knees such as Julian Feller and Hayden Morris.

If you see a sports physician at Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre you will get in to see them much more quickly.

It is worth waiting to see someone in the top of the field. You only get one set of knees.

[Hockeygoalie]

Hi Guys,
Have done my ACL trailbike riding. Had MRI and been into Olympic Park today to get refferal to see Jullian FELLER, as he had the best rep in Melbourne. Hears the twist...I really want him to do the op but he doesn't see TAC patients, but i have private health top cover. So i have been booked in to see Tim Whitehead in two weeks and i have not heard much about him. I still really want Julian to do the op and I am not really happy with outcome of today and can't afford to pay a huge gap fee. Any suggestions? Cheers

[kjwilkin]

Hi there,

I would still get Julian Feller to do the op. You could always pay for the surgery with your private health insurance and get it rebated from TAC that way. I only had a gap of $100 last year and that was for the anaesthetist. You would only need to fill in some forms from your health insurance company I think.

Know for sure that Tim Whitehead charges a big gap, where as Julian doesn't.

Generally Julian doesn't see TAC patients generally, but does have a few. I am one of them. Been seeing him for a long time. So, that's probably why he accepted me as a TAC patient.

My suggestion would be to see Julian Feller at Olympic Park.

[hayder]

Hi Kjwilkin,

It is interesting that you make this comment. I had my acl reconstructed by tim whitehead recently using my private health cover and was charged no gap at all!! Where do you get your information?

[kjwilkin]

From one of his patients.

[hayder]

Gaps must be at the discretion of the surgeon then. For what is is worth, I have been really happy with my knee and treatment from Tim and his staff - highly recommended!!

[anmol_khanna]

As a general sports doctor I can recommend Dr Harry Unglik ( mid-town sports medical center). He is AFL's chief medical advsor, knows his stuff and more importantly is compassionate.

Can't thank him enough for everytime he places his hands on my shoulder and says we will work through it together and make things good.

[rossy]

Used this forum to get preoperative info so thought I should feedback for those interested in LARS as an option and a genuinely personable and caring surgeon.

Ruptured my right ACL 23/12/08 (falling off a ladder) and Cameron Norsworthy did a LARS procedure 22/4/09. I'm 54, female and reasonably active on the open water swim circuit. I opted for LARS if possible because of reduced rehab, no harvesting of good bits to fix the broken bits etc etc. Was aware of the controversy surrounding the procedure but found Cameron to be very discerning about when the procedure is appropriate and when it is not.

For comparison with traditional ACL recos my milestones have been:
Overnight in hospital, 2 weeks of considerable discomfort + achieved >90 deg bend, 3 weeks - driving and on a stationery bike, 4 weeks - swimming 3 km pool sessions + could fully straighten leg, 6 weeks >130 deg bend, 8 weeks - started sleeping properly!, 10 weeks - zero pain + long bike and stepper sessions, 12 week checkup - knee is very strong, can now do whatever I like, can squat, kneel, am running and plan to play tennis this weekend. I couldn't be happier!

[dede23]

Congrats on the recovery and i hope that u continue to improve and maintain such unreal results. I also enquired on the LARS but went for traditional recon. Cameron wld have been my surgeon also. But ended up with Merv Cross. Personally, i think that the LARS is a gr8 option for NON professional ppl like the AFL players and those that have a massive impact on knee. Swimming is low impact and gr8 for knees so LARS is a gr8 choice. I wish i had done that but it wasnt for me. This normal recon at 8wk is so painful when rehabing. Iv got 90 degree bend, and 35 degree in extension. So a way to go. My brace was changed to 15 degrees and kept at 90degrees. Its a frustrating time and wish i did lars but i didnt and cant turn back clock!! Anwy, hope alls going well and ur happy with results!!!!!

[Devonsmith]

Just needed to spread the Julian Feller love, the guy is brilliant. I'm squatting and dead lifting heavier than ever, along with that I'm running hills. All this 8 weeks after the operation. Next to zero scar, the leg feels brilliant. Highly recommended if you have the choice. I joined for this reason only.

[kjwilkin]

Glad to hear you are doing so well. I reckon he is brilliant too. Wouldn't be able to walk if it wasn't for him.

JF is a legend !

Out of interest, what op did you have ?

[Yellowlily]

Dr David Booth did arthroscopic operation on my both knees in January 2011. Right after the operation I felt that the pain was worse than before and I asked him why when I met him 2weeks after the operation for following up. He seemed offended and told me to see a physio as his operation went well - he said he cleaned up the tears. As usual he didn't spend any more time to explain things. Anyway after spending money and time on physio and a sports doctor I have decided to do MRI again. MRI report, 4 months after the operation, concluded I still have complex oblique tear!!!. Previously the tear was very clean horizontal but now I have complex oblique tear and radial tear. I don't know what he has done on my knees.

What sort of options do I have in this case?

Any good surgeons who will be happy to take a risk to clean up someone else's mess?

I am in my late 30's and not overweight (indeed people think I am quite skinny). I don't do any exercise so no one knows why I have this meniscal tear in the first place.. I am very much depressed due to the pain and unsuccessful operations.

Should I see Dr. Booth again for the explanation? Can I make any complaint or claim compensation??

Many thinks.

[kneesknees]

Julian Feller is a fantastic surgeon. He has been my surgeon for 10 years/6 operations. I have a problem where the ligaments/tendons and bones are crooked, I'm finally having my last operation in 2 weeks to straighten everything out. I cannot reccomend him highly enough, He's motivated, caring and offers time to explain things in detail to his patients. There is no need to question his abilities, no other surgeon I have seen (And I have seen quite a few), meets Julian's standards....

Yes, except you always come second to the more important footballers, regardless of medical need

[Arnie26]

Wow what a great thread for people seeking additional info on Knee Specialists.

I've have 2 knee and 1 wrist operations as a result from playing football, all done by Andrew Bryne in Ballarat. I've found him to be really good.

[Nicholas R]

Just wanted your thoughts on orthopedic surgeon Mr Robert Steele. Thanks

[injuryboy]

hey guys/girls i have to get some surgery done on my knee (meniscus tear) . Has any one heard of Dr Dirk Van Bavel? I've read the post from this thread and realize who are the favourite/recommended surgeons ..