Orthopaedic Surgery
ConditionsConditions
Assessment and management of all adult and paediatric orthopaedic conditions.
Availability
North South
North West
Statewide
Scope
Fractures that have had initial first aid treatment (GP or ED) are seen in the Orthopaedic Clinic as urgent referrals. For urgent or unstable fractures that may require operative intervention phone the Orthopaedic Registrar on duty to discuss the case and also fax a referral to clinic.
Back pain please consider Neurosurgery Clinic or Spinal Assessment Clinic (south only).
Emergency conditions
Emergency conditions/symptoms include (not an exhaustive list):
- Septic arthritis
- Unstable fractures
Referral process
A referral (preferably faxed) is required for all new appointments and must conform to the Referral Standards as outlined on For Clinicians.
Specific requirements are detailed in the individual clinic and condition referral guidelines.
Referrals are registered by the clinic to who they are referred and are triaged according to the specific clinic guidelines.
Emergency
Proceed to Emergency Department (ED). Please contact ED Medical Officer in Charge:
LGH ED – Phone: (03) 6777 6405 Fax: (03) 6348 7382
MCH ED – Phone: (03) 6478 5120 Fax: (03) 6426 5115
NWRH ED – Phone: (03) 6493 6340 Fax: (03) 6430 6691
RHH ED – Phone: (03) 6166 6100 Fax: (03) 6173 0489
Urgent / category 1
We will endeavour to see these patients within four weeks, or sooner if clinically indicated.
Semi-urgent / category 2
We will endeavour to see these patients within 12 weeks
Routine / category 3
Next available appointment
Referral template
For use by health professionals only
Additional information
Clinical Knowledge Summaries (CKS): Osteoarthritis
RACGP Referral for Joint Replacement: A management guide for health providers