Patient Resources: An Elective Approach to Surgery

As an orthopaedic specialist, Dr. Harwin believes that a key part of his responsibility is to help each patient make his or her own informed decision about treatment options and whether or not to have surgery.

After the diagnosis is made, Dr. Harwin will recommend a course of treatment based on his extensive clinical experience and proven judgment. Many orthopaedic injuries and problems can be managed utilizing nonsurgical measures, such as medication and physical therapy.

When Dr. Harwin does recommend surgery, it is only after nonsurgical options have been considered. Patients are shown educational materials, including anatomical models and brochures, to help them understand the surgical procedure and potential outcomes, including benefits, risks and alternatives.

Patients who elect to have surgery will take comfort in knowing they are in the hands of one of the most experienced orthopaedic surgeons in the nation. During his career, Dr. Harwin has performed more than 12,000 orthopaedic surgical procedures, including total hip and knee replacement, shoulder arthroscopy, rotator cuff surgery, arthroscopic and open surgery of the knee and ACL ligament reconstruction.

Dr. Harwin has authored over 80 scientific articles, textbook chapters, surgical technique manuals and video productions of various types of surgical procedures. He has been a visiting professor and speaker, and has performed surgery at prestigious medical centers worldwide, including the United States, Europe, South America, Australia, Japan, India, and China. He has lectured at more than 90 academic and educational courses. This is why he has been named a “Best Doctor in America,” “Top Surgeon in America,” “Best Doctor and Top Doctor in New York” and a “New York Super Doctor.”