Patient Information

We understand that coming to see a specialist can feel daunting. This section is designed to help you feel informed, prepared, and at ease at every stage of your care — from your very first appointment through to recovery and beyond.

Book Consultation

What to Bring

A list of your current medications
Your health insurance details and authorisation number (if applicable)
Any referral letter from your GP
A friend or family member, if you would like support

Your First Appointment

Your first consultation with Mr John Adam is an opportunity to discuss your symptoms in detail, ask any questions you may have, and receive clear, expert advice on what is happening and what your options are.

Take a careful history — asking about the nature of your symptoms, when they started, what makes them better or worse, and how they are affecting your daily life
Carry out a thorough examination of the affected shoulder or elbow
Review any previous imaging or investigation results you bring with you
Explain what he thinks is going on in clear, straightforward language
Discuss all appropriate treatment options — both non-surgical and surgical — and give you his recommendation

How Long will It Take?

A first consultation with Mr Adam typically lasts 20 minutes, though this varies depending on the complexity of your situation.

Will I Need Investigations?

Depending on your symptoms, Mr Adam may request imaging such as X-rays, an ultrasound, or an MRI scan following your consultation. In some cases, X-rays can be arranged on the same day as your appointment at the hospital. He will explain which investigations are needed and why.

Recovery & Rehabilitation

Recovery from shoulder or elbow surgery requires patience, commitment, and good support. Mr Adam and his team will guide you through your rehabilitation, from the immediate post-operative period through to your return to full activity.

Immediately After Surgery

Depending on the procedure, you may wake up with your arm in a sling. The nursing team will ensure your pain is well managed before you go home. You may experience some discomfort, bruising, and swelling around the operated area in the first few days — this is entirely normal.

Pain Management

You will be prescribed appropriate pain relief for the post-operative period. It is important to take this regularly, as prescribed, particularly in the first few days. Ice packs applied to the area (protected by a cloth) can also help reduce swelling and discomfort.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is an essential component of recovery following most shoulder and elbow procedures. Mr Adam may refer you to a physiotherapist who will guide you through a structured rehabilitation programme. It is important to follow your physiotherapy programme carefully and to progress at the pace recommended — pushing too hard too soon risks compromising the repair, while under-doing rehabilitation can lead to stiffness and a slower recovery.

Driving

You should not drive until you are able to perform an emergency stop safely and are no longer taking strong pain medication. This is typically six weeks following most shoulder and elbow procedures, though this varies by operation and individual recovery. Mr Adam can advise you specifically for your procedure.

Return To Work

Return to work depends on the nature of your job and the procedure performed. Many patients in desk-based roles can return to work within four to six weeks following arthroscopic procedures. Those in manual roles may require significantly longer. Mr Adam can provide guidance specific to your situation.

Preparing For Surgery

If you and Mr Adam have decided that surgery is the right option for you, this page will help you understand what to expect in the run-up to your operation and how to prepare.

Pre-Operative Assessment

Before your surgery, you will be invited for a pre-operative assessment — either in clinic or with the nursing team at the hospital. This involves a health check including blood tests, an ECG (heart trace), and blood pressure measurement. The purpose is to ensure you are fit for anaesthetic and to identify any factors that need to be managed before your operation.

Medications

Some medications need to be stopped or adjusted before surgery. In particular, blood thinning medications (such as warfarin, rivaroxaban, or clopidogrel) Continue all other medications unless specifically advised otherwise.

On The Day Of Surgery

You will be greeted by the nursing team, who will complete your admission. The anaesthetist will come to see you to discuss the anaesthetic plan. Mr Adam will also see you before your operation to confirm the procedure, answer any questions, and mark the operated side. Most procedures are performed under general anaesthetic, sometimes combined with a regional nerve block for additional post-operative pain control.

Going Home

Most of Mr Adam's procedures are performed as day cases, meaning you go home the same day. You will need someone to collect you, as you will not be able to drive. The nursing team will ensure you have appropriate pain relief to take home and will provide written instructions for your first days of recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the questions we are most commonly asked. If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Do I need a GP referral to see Mr Adam privately?

You do not necessarily need a GP referral to book a private consultation with Mr Adam. However, some insurance companies require a referral for authorisation purposes, please check your policy.

How quickly can I be seen?

Private consultations are typically available within 1-2 weeks. Please contact us directly for current availability.

Will Mr Adam perform my operation himself?

Yes. Mr Adam performs all listed procedures himself. He will always discuss the details of your operation with you in advance.

Do I need an MRI before my appointment?

No. For many conditions, Mr Adam can provide a detailed assessment and preliminary diagnosis at your first consultation without prior imaging. Often you will have radiographs (X-Ray) preformed at your first consultation if this has not been previously arranged. He will then request any further specialist imaging if required. However, if you already have recent and relevant imaging, please make the hospital team aware before your consultation.

Will I need surgery?

Many shoulder and elbow conditions can be managed effectively without surgery. Mr Adam will discuss non-surgical and surgical options with you, tailoring treatment to your needs.

Is Mr Adam recognised by my insurer?

Mr Adam is recognised by many major UK health insurers. If you are unsure, please contact his secretary or your insurer directly.

Fees and Insurance

New Patient Appointment: £200

Follow-up Appointment: £150

These fees cover your consultation with Mr Adam.

Any investigations, procedures, or surgical fees are separate and will be clearly explained to you before you agree to proceed.

Self-Funding

Many patients choose to fund their care privately without insurance. If you are self-funding, Mr Adam's team will provide you with a clear breakdown of all fees before you proceed with any treatment.

Recognised Insurers

Mr Adam is recognised by many major UK private health insurers. If you plan to use health insurance, please:

Contact your insurer before your appointment to confirm that Mr Adam is recognised and to check your policy covers the type of consultation or treatment you need
Obtain any required pre-authorisation number from your insurer
Bring your insurance details and authorisation number to your appointment