Orthopaedic Second Opinion in Mallorca

Why Seek a Second Opinion?

"Already received a surgery recommendation? Get an independent second opinion."

Surgery is a major decision with significant risks. Before undergoing an operation, it is wise to obtain an independent second opinion from a specialist who has no financial incentive to recommend surgery.

When to Seek a Second Opinion

• Back surgery recommended (herniated disc, spinal stenosis, spinal fusion)
• Knee surgery (meniscus, ligaments, replacement)
• Shoulder surgery (rotator cuff, decompression)
• Any major orthopaedic surgery
• You are not convinced that surgery is necessary
• You wish to explore conservative alternatives

Our Conservative Approach

"Our goal is to pursue a conservative approach and avoid surgery whenever possible."

As a private practice (Privatpraxis), we have no financial incentives to recommend surgery. Our goal is to avoid operations whenever possible through effective conservative treatments.

Risks of Surgery

Every operation carries risks:

• Infection: 1-4% of cases
• Bleeding and anaesthetic complications
• Nerve damage: may cause permanent paralysis
• Failed surgery: 10-40% in back operations
• Chronic post-surgical pain: post-laminectomy syndrome
• Prolonged recovery: 3-6 months off work
• Irreversible: cannot be undone

Conservative Alternatives

In many cases, conservative treatments offer comparable or superior results to surgery:

For Herniated Discs and Sciatica

• SpineMed: Non-surgical spinal decompression (efficacy described in published clinical studies)
• Epidural injections: Relief of radicular pain
• Manual medicine: Correction of spinal blockages
• Cryotherapy: Inflammation reduction

For Knee Osteoarthritis

• PRP: Cartilage regeneration
• Hyaluronic acid: Joint lubrication
• Physiotherapy and muscle strengthening
• Cryotherapy: Pain management

For Chronic Tendinitis

• Shockwave therapy: Established conservative option for chronic tendinopathies, supported by published studies
• PRP: Tendon regeneration
• Eccentric physiotherapy

The Second Opinion Process

1. Bring Your Documentation

• Previous medical reports
• MRI scans or X-rays
• Surgery recommendation from the other doctor
• History of previous treatments

2. Comprehensive Examination

We conduct a thorough physical examination and review all your documentation. Consultation time: 45-60 minutes (not 10 minutes as in public clinics).

3. Independent Assessment

We explain:

• Whether surgery is truly necessary
• What conservative alternatives exist
• Likelihood of success for each option
• Risks and benefits of surgery versus conservative treatment

4. Treatment Plan

If we determine that conservative treatment is appropriate, we design a personalised plan. If surgery is unavoidable, we explain why and help you prepare.

Common Second Opinion Cases

Back Surgery

Typical case: Patient with L5-S1 herniated disc, leg pain, recommendation for microdiscectomy.

Our assessment: In many cases, a combination of SpineMed, injections and physiotherapy can delay or avoid surgery. Indication and outcome are assessed individually.

Knee Replacement

Typical case: Patient aged 55, moderate osteoarthritis, recommendation for total knee replacement.

Our assessment: In mild to moderate osteoarthritis, PRP + hyaluronic acid + physiotherapy can delay replacement by 5-10 years.

Shoulder Surgery

Typical case: Calcific tendinitis, recommendation for arthroscopy.

Our assessment: Shockwave therapy can break down calcium deposits and is described in published studies as an established conservative option before arthroscopic surgery. Indication and outcome are assessed individually.

Testimonials

"I was told I needed disc surgery. Dr. Diedrich offered me SpineMed as an alternative. After 20 sessions, the pain disappeared completely. I avoided the operation." – Michael S., German cyclist

"Three doctors told me I needed a knee replacement. Dr. Diedrich treated me with PRP and physiotherapy. Two years later, I still have no prosthesis and can play golf without pain." – Carlos M., Spanish golfer

Cost of a Second Opinion

The second opinion consultation has a fixed fee. Please contact our practice for pricing information.

Important: The cost of a second opinion is minimal compared to:

• Cost of unnecessary surgery (EUR 5,000-15,000)
• Recovery time (3-6 months off work)
• Risk of complications
• Possible chronic post-surgical pain

Book Your Second Opinion

Phone: +34 971 68 43 45
Email: info@ortopedia-palma.es

Consultations available in English, Spanish or German.