Frequently asked questions

Dr. Oğuzhan Karaman is a resident physician undertaking specialty training in the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology at the University of Health Sciences Kayseri Faculty of Medicine. His clinical work is based in the orthopaedics and traumatology training department at Kayseri City Hospital.

You can call Kayseri City Training and Research Hospital on +90 352 315 77 00 and ask to be connected to the appropriate department. The hospital is at Şeker Mahallesi, Muhsin Yazıcıoğlu Boulevard No:77, Kocasinan, Kayseri. The hospital can explain current appointment arrangements.

Assessment starts with when symptoms began, how they developed and how they affect daily life. The examination considers movement, tenderness, swelling and joint function. Imaging or other tests are selected according to the clinical questions raised by this initial assessment.

Treatment depends on the fracture location, the position of the bone fragments and the surrounding tissues. Some fractures are managed with a cast or splint, while others require surgical fixation. Examination and X-rays guide the decision, and healing time varies with the injury.

X-rays commonly assess bones and joint structure, while CT can provide detailed cross-sectional views of bone. MRI is useful for ligaments, tendons, cartilage and other soft tissues. MRI is not necessary for every complaint; the test is chosen to answer a particular clinical question.

Osteoarthritis involves deterioration of the cartilage within a joint over time. It can cause pain, stiffness and reduced movement. Assessment considers how symptoms affect daily life, the examination and, when appropriate, X-rays; these findings help guide the treatment plan.

A total knee replacement replaces damaged knee joint surfaces with artificial components. It is generally considered when pain and limited function substantially affect daily life and other treatments have not provided adequate relief. The decision considers examination findings, imaging and overall health.

A total hip replacement replaces the damaged ball and socket of the hip joint with artificial components. It aims to reduce pain and support joint function. Suitability is assessed through symptoms, response to other treatments, examination, imaging and the person's overall health.

Sports-related pain may result from a sprain, ligament injury or strain affecting a muscle or tendon. Assessment considers how the injury happened, swelling, tenderness and loss of movement. Treatment and return to sport are planned according to the injury and its recovery.

Bring any previous X-rays, MRI or CT images together with their reports. Prepare a list of medications, important medical conditions, previous operations and treatments you have tried. Explaining when symptoms began and which daily movements are most difficult helps make the visit more useful.

Follow-up reviews assess wound healing, pain, swelling, movement and changes in daily function. Imaging and rehabilitation plans are adjusted to the operation and the recovery process. Follow the review schedule provided at discharge and report new or worsening symptoms to the treating team.

An obvious deformity, bone visible through an open wound, heavy bleeding or new numbness after an injury needs urgent assessment. A marked change in the colour of the hand or foot also requires prompt evaluation. Seek emergency care rather than waiting for a routine appointment.