Our Orthopedic Second Opinion Service – MRI/X-ray Review

It is very common for patients suffering from  knee injuries who want to make sure they are making the best decision to maintain their active lifestyles to get second opinions from other physicians. Patients seeking an orthopedic second opinion can send medical records along with initial MRI and radiology results for Dr. LaPrade’s review.

Whether you live in the Twin Cities area or across the globe, you have access to the experience and expertise of one of the top complex knee surgeons in the world. Dr. LaPrade is respected globally as a specialized clinician scientist, and many of the surgeries that he has developed are now recognized as the “gold standard” for the treatment of complex knee injuries.  As a result of his prolific research and reputation, patients from around the world look to him for a second opinion and review of their medical records, MRIs and/or X-rays to determine the best treatment options for their knee injuries.

Why do patients seek a Medical Second Opinion or MRI/X-ray Review?

Individuals affected by an orthopedic knee injury often feel confused by the initial diagnosis and prescribed treatment. With a healthcare system that continues to become more complicated, as well as various treatment options ranging from non-surgical to surgical, patients often question their diagnosis and treatment plan. Dr. LaPrade may validate the existing diagnosis and treatment plan or may offer alternate approaches for treating the injury. In addition, Dr. LaPrade can provide information regarding expected outcomes, potential complications and recovery time.

What Can Our Medical Second Opinion Service Provide to Patients?

The orthopedic second opinion that Dr. LaPrade provides from reviewing your case history, MRIs and/or X-rays can help you:

  • Gain more knowledge about your orthopedic diagnosis and treatment options
  • Make more-informed decisions about your health care
  • Compare diagnosis and treatment results between two physicians
  • Confirm the diagnosis and treatment plan are correct

Most sports medicine physicians welcome an orthopedic second opinion from a respected peer. A good physician understands a patient’s right to be well informed. Some physicians will even encourage patients to contact a medical second opinion service because a different doctor may determine a different diagnosis and/or treatment plan.

How to Get an MRI/X-ray Review from Dr. LaPrade

You may feel concerned about offending your treating physician by obtaining Dr. LaPrade’s medical opinion utilizing our second opinion service, but you should feel comfortable. Be honest with your original physician, and he or she should not be offended because information is vital to all patients when it comes to healthcare.

To initiate an orthopedic second opinion from Dr. LaPrade, you will need to gather a copy of your medical records, MRIs and radiology results to give him a better understanding of the details of your orthopedic injury and then follow the instructions your will receive after submitting the below form for an MRI/Xray Review.

How Much Does an MRI/X-ray Review Cost?

It is always recommended that you contact your insurance company directly for a full explanation on the cost involved with a second opinion. With the ever-changing healthcare and insurance industries, it is important that you understand all costs involved, including physician office visit, new MRI and radiology tests, etc.  Dr. LaPrade’s fee for an MRI/X-ray Review is $300 payable by credit card.

Clinical Case & MRI Record Review Expectations

Dr. LaPrade offers a structured record-based expert opinion service for individuals seeking an independent review of their orthopedic imaging and medical records.

This service is designed for patients who would like an objective assessment of their case based on submitted documentation.

What This Service Includes

  • Review of submitted MRI/CT imaging (DICOM format required)
  • Review of pertinent medical records
  • An independent expert opinion based solely on materials received
  • Communication of findings through the clinical team

Important Service Parameters

 This service:

  • Is record-based only
  • Does not include a physical examination
  • Is not a TeleHealth consultation
  • Does not establish an ongoing physician-patient relationship
  • Does not include ongoing medical management

Recommendations reflect clinical judgment based on the documentation submitted. Because orthopedic cases can be complex, opinions may differ from those of other providers.

Scope of Review

The Clinical Case & MRI Review is limited to one body region per submission (for example: knee, shoulder, hip, or ankle).
If review of multiple body regions is requested, each area requires a separate submission and fee.

Imaging Requirements

Imaging must be submitted in original DICOM format on CD or USB drive.

For privacy, security, and data integrity reasons, we do not access or download imaging from third-party portals or hospital image-sharing platforms.

Complete submission instructions will be provided after payment.

Timeline

The review period begins once all required materials and payment have been received and verified.

Findings are typically communicated within approximately 10 business days of confirmed complete submission.

Follow-Up

Up to two clarification questions may be submitted within 7 days of receiving findings. Additional reviews require a new submission.

We understand that many individuals seeking a second opinion are navigating complex medical decisions. Our goal is to provide a clear, objective expert assessment based on the materials provided.