(07) 3834 6533
Phone hours: Mon – Fri 8:30AM – 4PM
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about your upper limb treatment, recovery, and appointments.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please call (07) 3834 6533 to speak with our team.
Before surgery
Will I need general anaesthesia or can procedures be done under local anaesthetic?
This will be discussed at your appointment and if you have a preference please let Dr Gilpin know. The majority of procedures are undertaken under a general anaesthetic or with twilight anaesthesia.
How long will I be in hospital?
Most hand surgery is undertaken as a day procedure. Shoulder surgery including arthroplasty or more significant elbow surgery typically will be booked with a bed overnight.
When can I travel by aeroplane?
There is a relative risk of deep vein thrombosis in general after surgery.
The risk is not high in upper limb surgery or injuries. If you are planning to air travel during the treatment period, please discuss with Dr Gilpin prior to surgery.
What medications should I take on the day of surgery?
You should take your regular medications with a small sip of water on the day of surgery (unless instructed otherwise by the surgeon or the anaesthetist).
If you are taking pain medications, a GLP-1, blood thinners or any other regular medications, please inform Dr Gilpin and your anaesthetist.
What should I bring to the hospital?
- Your medications
- Documentation about your health funds
- Your sling/splint if you are using one
What if I have an infection or cuts on my operative limb?
Please notify the surgeon as soon as possible if you have any infection (active or recent) or rashes, grazes or cuts on the operative limb.
After Your Surgery
When can I return to work, exercise, and other activities?
Return to work, heavy lifting or sports is patient and procedure dependent. Dr Gilpin will formulate a plan that is suitable for you and discuss this with you at your appointment.
When can I drive?
This is dependent on your procedure. In general, you cannot drive if you have significant upper limb pain or are taking strong pain killers.
You should not drive if you are wearing any splint or sling. Please discuss with Dr Gilpin or your Hand therapist / physiotherapist if you have any questions.
I have a dressing or stitches post surgery. How do I manage this?
In general, the dressings placed in theatre are to remain on until your follow up with either Dr Gilpin or your hand therapist / physiotherapist. If there are any concerns, please contact your hand therapist / physiotherapist or our rooms.
Keep the wounds clean and dry for 2 weeks.
I need a medical certificate following surgery.
Please email reception@drbradgilpin.com.au
Generally, a certificate can be provided to cover you from your operative date to your first post op appointment. If you require further time off, then this can be discussed with Dr Gilpin at your post operative appointment.
Can I get my wound wet after surgery?
Please do not get your wound wet. You can shower or bathe, but you will need to make modifications to ensure that your wound does not get wet.
When do I need to get an X-ray?
If instructed please obtain an X-ray on the day of, or day prior to your post-operative review and keep a record of where this was done so these images can be reviewed at your appointment.
A referral form will be provided if you need to get an X-ray done.
You do not need to make an appointment with the radiology provider to get an X-ray.
Do I need hand therapy or physiotherapy?
Please make an appointment and attend your post-operative therapy.
It is a key component of rehabilitation and will help you to get the best results.
How should I take my medications after surgery?
If antibiotics are prescribed, please take the full course as directed.
Take your normal prescription medications as usual unless you have been otherwise advised.
If you have any concerns, please call the rooms on (07) 3834 6533.
Parking & Location Information
Where can I park at Brisbane Private Hospital?
Undercover paid parking for patients and visitors is available in the Brisbane Private Specialist Centre car park off Birley Street. A number of two hour street parking bays are also available surrounding the hospital.
If parking is unavailable at our onsite car park please note the following car parks are available in the area:
- Wilsons car park can be accessed via Bartley St off Wickham Terrace.
- Wickham Terrace car park is located on the corner of Upper Edward St & Wickham Tce and can be accessed from Turbot St and Creek St.
Please arrive early to allow plenty of time to find parking.
Where can I park at North West Private Hospital?
Parking at North West Private Hospital has free on site parking.
Contact & Appointment Information
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring your referral and the name of the company where your imaging was done.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
Yes, this will allow you to claim back your Medicare rebate and provide Dr Gilpin with history of your injury.
Can I receive a Medicare rebate?
Yes, with a valid referral.
How often will I need follow-up appointments?
You will be advised of your first appointment in your surgical information email. If you have not received this please call our rooms on (07) 3834 6533.
How do I contact the practice?
If you have any concerns about your surgery or post operative care, please contact our rooms by one of the following methods:
Phone: (07) 3834 6533
Email: reception@drbradgilpin.com.au