New to Three Rivers Orthopedic Associates?

You’ve Come to the Right Page!

Dear Patient,

Three Rivers Orthopedic Associates prides itself on delivering only the best in quality, compassionate, and dignified care. We believe that great care and service starts with telling you what to expect, and then meeting or exceeding those expectations.

Since 1964, it has been our mission to provide exceptional care to the patients who choose us for their orthopaedic needs. Providing you with as much information as we can is part of that commitment.

You may be wondering what to expect at your first appointment, especially if you haven’t met with an orthopaedic surgeon before. Diagnostic tests and treatment options will be discussed one-on-one with your physician, but we can give you some helpful information right now.

If you would like to book an office visit, you may call us at (412) 782-3990 (St. Margaret Office) or (724) 226-1199 (Natrona Heights Office), or click here to fill out our electronic appointment request form.

Before-Appointment Frequently Asked Questions:

Nothing takes the place of meeting with your physician, but many patients have similar questions about their procedures.

What Insurances Do You Accept?

Three Rivers Orthopedic Associates participates in many insurance plans. We accept the following plans, but encourage you to contact your insurance provider to review your benefits.

Commercial

- Aetna
- Cigna Health Care
- Health America/Health Assurance
- Highmark (with exceptions)
- United Healthcare
- UPMC Health Plan

Medicare

- - Aetna
  - Gateway Health Plan
  - Health America/Health Assurance
  - Highmark (with exceptions)
  - Medicare CMS
  - UPMC Health Plan

If you have any questions about insurance, please contact the UPMC Physician Services Division Central Billing Office at 1-800-854-1745.

When will I be able to go back to work?

This will be discussed during your initial follow-up visit with your surgeon, which usually is between two and three weeks after your surgery.

Who will be performing the surgery?

Your surgeon will perform the procedure with a physician’s assistant or orthopaedic resident and a specialized operating room team.

How long will surgery take?

Your surgeon will give you an estimate of the duration of your procedure. Most operations can be done in one to three hours, but some take more time. You will go to the recovery room after your surgery, where you will spend between two and three hours before going to the orthopaedic unit. If you had a MIS total hip or MIS total knee done, you will go to the pre-op area for your first physical therapy session after you have recovered from anesthesia. You will then be transported to the orthopaedic unit.

How much pain is to be expected after my surgical procedure?

Pain is to be expected and is normal after surgery. Pain varies with each patient. Using ice, elevation and pain medication as prescribed will help ease the pain you may be experiencing. If your pain is not being controlled by these measures, please call the office.

Will I need an assistive device, such as a walker, crutches or cane?

The operation you had will determine if an assistive device is necessary.

What physical activities will I be able to participate in after surgery?

Your surgeon will discuss activities with you that are compatible with the type of surgery you had and let you know when you can safely resume those activities. In general, low impact physical activities are acceptable. These activities include swimming, golfing, dancing, hiking, bowling and gardening. Patients who have had joint replacements should avoid most high-impact activities like tennis, running, basketball and skiing. Please be sure to check with your orthopaedic surgeon before starting any physical activities or exercise programs.

How long will my new hip or new knee last?

It is impossible to predict how long a joint replacement will last for any patient. However, recent studies suggest that patients who have had modern total joint replacements have remained satisfied for many years.

What should I do about forms that need to be completed for my employer?

All forms need to go through the office to be completed. Quick answers to the frequently asked questions above may be convenient, but nothing replaces a meeting with your physician. Call us at (412) 782-3990 (St. Margaret Office) or (724) 226-1199 (Natrona Heights Office), or simply and easily fill out the form below and we will schedule a time for you to come in at your convenience.