Certainty before surgery
You have been advised to have surgery – and want to be sure it is the right decision? That is wise. I review your scans thoroughly, examine you in person and tell you honestly whether I would operate. And if not: which alternatives exist.
Medical Notice: The content of this page is for general information only and does not replace medical examination or advice. Medicine is a constantly evolving field – despite careful research, no guarantee can be given for complete up-to-dateness. Full disclaimer →
Not every recommended operation is necessary. Studies repeatedly show that a relevant share of orthopaedic procedures could be avoided or at least postponed with conservative treatment — for example in degenerative meniscus damage or early osteoarthritis.
At the same time, the opposite is also true: some procedures are delayed too long and the joint takes further damage. A well-founded second opinion creates clarity — in both directions.
Before joint replacement (hip or knee) – a major, definitive step
For meniscus and ACL surgery – not every tear needs an operation
For shoulder surgery – impingement and rotator cuff problems can often be treated conservatively
Whenever you feel uncertain or not sufficiently informed after the first consultation
“I only operate when it is truly necessary. This principle applies especially to second opinions. You get an honest professional assessment from me, not a sales consultation. If conservative treatment is the better option, I will tell you so clearly.”
Dr. Philippe Ghobrial
Bring all available documents: MRI and X-ray images, medical reports, the surgery recommendation, a list of medications. Appointments are usually available within a few days.
I examine you thoroughly and go through your imaging with you personally – explained clearly, in plain English. You see for yourself what your scans show.
You get a clear answer: surgery necessary, alternatives available, or wait and see. What you do with this recommendation is entirely up to you – without any pressure.
The second opinion is billed as a regular private (Wahlarzt) consultation. Your Austrian statutory health insurer refunds approx. 80 % of the public tariff. If you have outpatient supplementary (Sonderklasse) insurance, I help you submit the claim – depending on your policy, costs are covered in part or in full.
Everything about cost coverage →It is billed as a regular private (Wahlarzt) consultation. You receive an invoice, of which your statutory health insurer refunds approx. 80% of the public tariff. With outpatient supplementary insurance I help you submit the claim.
All available records: MRI and X-ray images (on CD or as a link), medical reports, surgery recommendations and a list of your medications. The more complete the records, the more solid the assessment.
Usually within a few days. If you already have a surgery date scheduled elsewhere, I aim to see you quickly so you can decide without time pressure.
Then I will tell you just as clearly – including my assessment of the recommended technique. Whether you have the procedure with your original surgeon or with me remains entirely your decision.
Surgery is an important decision. Take the time for a second opinion – I take the time for you. Consultations in English or German.
1040 Vienna: +43 1 585 62 60 · 1020 Vienna: +43 1 890 45 20
By appointment · 1040 Vienna-Wieden (Große Neugasse 28/2) · 1020 Vienna-Leopoldstadt (Vorgartenstrasse 206c)