Orthopaedic Surgery Second Opinions

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for bone, joint or muscle problems—especially for children, whose bodies are still growing and changing. If you or your child needs orthopaedic care, you should make sure you’re aware of all your treatment options. 

Our expert, pediatric orthopaedic surgeons offer second opinions for many conditions and injuries, including:

• Brachial plexus injuries
• Broken bones and complex fractures
• Conditions requiring limb lengthening and reconstruction
• Hand or arm problems
• Hip dysplasia and other hip disorders or injuries
• Mobility problems caused by medical conditions such as cerebral palsy
• Osteochondritis dissecans
• Spine conditions and injuries, including scoliosis
• Sports-related injuries, such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears

No matter what brings you to Cincinnati Children’s, our goal is to help you or your child live as fully and actively as possible.

What Are the Benefits of Getting an Orthopaedic Second Opinion?

Some families ask us for a second opinion because they want our advice on treatments another provider has recommended. For example, we can help you understand whether surgery is the best option, or if a nonsurgical treatment may be just as safe and effective.

Other families turn to us because previous treatments haven’t helped or have stopped working.

When you request a second opinion, we’ll help you compare different treatments that are available to you or your child. Our providers will help you understand:

• The risks and benefits of each treatment
• Potential side effects
• Recovery time

How Do I Start the Process of Getting an Orthopaedic Second Opinion?

There are several ways you can request a second opinion with one of our orthopaedic specialists:

• Fill out our online form. In the “Requesting” field, choose “Requesting A Second Opinion” from the drop-down menu, then pick “”In Person” or “Remote Records Review.”
• Call 513-636-4454 and choose option 1 to schedule an appointment. If you call after hours, leave a message and we’ll return your call as soon as possible.
• Ask your primary care doctor for a referral. They can reach out to us to start the second opinion process on your behalf.

How Should I Prepare?

We’ll need the following items related to the medical condition or injury:

• Medical records
• X-rays or other imaging procedures
• Test results

You can ask your referring provider to send these materials to us, or we can contact them for you.

You should also bring your current medications and insurance card, as well as any custody paperwork and power of attorney documents (if applicable).

Can I Get A Second Opinion Without Traveling to Cincinnati?

Yes. Online second opinions are available to families and patients outside the Greater Cincinnati area (southwestern Ohio, northern Kentucky and southeast Indiana). A specialist from the Division of Orthopaedics will review your case and answer specific questions about a diagnosis or treatment options. It’s easy, convenient, and secure. Our case manager will collect your medical records and guide you through the process.

Online second opinions are different than telehealth video visits. Our physician reviews your existing medical records and focuses on the questions you already gave us. As a result, online second opinions don’t need a video or phone call. Your second opinion report includes our physician’s written opinion about that medical condition, diagnosis or treatment plan.

Online second opinions are typically not covered by insurance and cost $850. There may be additional fees if a radiology or pathology specialist needs to review your records. The program is not available in all areas or for every patient, we will work with you to make sure it’s appropriate for you. Request an online second opinion.