Orthopaedic Consultation Update for GP
Created by
Richard Wood
Specialty
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Last edited
10/20/2026
Uses
0 times
Tags
About this template
A structured letter template for orthopaedic surgeons to update a general practitioner about a patient's presentation, relevant history, examination, investigations, and management. It supports clear communication about musculoskeletal conditions, surgery, ongoing treatment, and follow-up needs.
Preview template
Dear Dr Patel,
I am writing to update you about our mutual patient, Arthur Pendelton (DOB: 12/04/1956, NHS: 485 772 9104), who attended my clinic on 15/05/2024.
- 18-month history of progressive R groin pain radiating to the anterior thigh, worse on weight-bearing.
- Walking distance reduced to 200 m; sleep disturbed by pain; difficulty putting on socks.
- PMH: HTN, T2DM, BMI 31 kg/m².
- PSH: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (2015), L knee arthroscopy (2018).
- Ramipril 5 mg PO OD, metformin 500 mg PO BD, paracetamol 1,000 mg PO QDS PRN, glucosamine sulphate 1,500 mg PO OD.
- Retired postman; lives with wife in a two-storey house (bedroom upstairs); ex-smoker (quit 2010); 4 units alcohol/week.
- Penicillin (generalised rash).
The consultation documented the following
- Antalgic gait; Trendelenburg positive on the R.
- R hip ROM: Flexion 80°, internal rotation 0° (irritable), external rotation 15°, fixed flexion deformity 10°.
- Distal neurovascular status intact (DP and PT pulses 2+, sensation normal).
- XR Pelvis and R Hip (15/05/2024): Severe osteoarthritic changes R hip with complete loss of superior joint space, subchondral sclerosis, marginal osteophytes, and subchondral cysts. L hip mild joint space narrowing.
The assessment led to the following management plan
- Listed for elective R total hip replacement (uncemented); risks and benefits discussed and consent obtained.
- Advised to commence naproxen 500 mg PO BD with omeprazole 20 mg PO OD for symptomatic relief while awaiting surgery.
- Advised weight loss and low-impact exercise (aquatherapy/cycling) to optimise pre-op status.
- Referred to Pre-Operative Assessment Clinic for routine bloods, ECG, and MRSA screen.
- Referred to community physiotherapy for prehabilitation and walking aid assessment.
I would value your ongoing support with Arthur Pendelton's care.
"Please contact me if you have any questions or need additional information."
"Yours sincerely,"
Mr Alistair Vance, FRCS (Tr & Orth) Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, St Jude's Hospital | Tel: 020 7946 0821 | Email: a.vance@stjudes.nhs.uk
How to use this template
This template can be used to assist with various tasks in the medical field. You can use it to generate notes, manage patient information, or assist with diagnosis and the Assessment and Plan. To use this template, simply click the “Use Template” button above. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to the support team or refer to the description and example output provided above.