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Frequently Asked Questions

Please see below for answers to the most common patient questions

The current wait time to surgery is 6-18 months from the time of your consultation. We understand that this is very difficult, especially when you are dealing with chronic pain. We are working with the health authority to obtain more resources and  improve timely access to surgery. Please have patience with us as we advocate to improve patient care. If you would like to provide feedback on how the wait time has affected you, please click the button below

How long is the wait for surgery?

It is understandably very difficult to wait for surgery when you are dealing with chronic pain. There are ongoing efforts to improve access to surgical care. Currently surgical wait times are estimated to be 6-18 months. Patients are triaged based on urgency and therefore, this will vary between patients

I have more questions after my appointment

We understand that there is a lot of information given, especially at new consults. If you still have questions, please contact the office to arrange a phone appointment with Dr Vaile

What implant system does Dr Vaile use?

Hip replacements typically use a Zimmer acetabular shell and Biomet uncemented Taperloc stem

Knee replacements typically use the Zimmer Persona System

I have forms or need a doctors note/letter

Please contact Angie by email with the forms attached and all patient information sections completed or the details needed in the requested letter. Angie will advise of the associated cost and send completed letters/forms to the requested email or fax number

Will I set off the metal detector at the airport?

It is possible that you may set off the metal detector at the airport after undergoing surgery with a metal implant. Unfortunately we can't provide a letter to assist with this

What are the implants made of?

Arthroplasty implants are typically made from titanium, cobalt-chromium, or surgical stainless steel

I can no longer make my appointment

Please contact the office as soon as possible

Click Here for information on who to contact for last minute changes

I can't remember what Dr Vaile and I spoke about at our appointment

If you were seen at the hospital, a dictated note will be available on the Interior Health MyHealthPortal

I am frustrated at the wait time to surgery. What can I do?

Wait times for orthopaedic surgical care are currently high, which is understandably frustrating. Feedback can be submitted to the Interior Health Patient Care Quality Office by clicking Here. This will allow you to communicate with Interior Health about how the wait times are affecting you

Get in Touch

If you have questions after your appointment with Dr Vaile, please contact the office to book a phone appointment. We want you to feel informed and confident about your treatment plan

Please note that content on this site is for informational purposes only. All diagnoses and treatment plans should be discussed with your healthcare provider

Information contained on sites accessed through external links is not regulated by our office and subject to change

P: 250-919-0872

F: 778-570-0779

Office Hours

M:   10:00am-2:00pm

T:    10:00am-2:00pm

W:  10:00am-2:00pm

T:    10:00am-2:00pm

Friday-Sunday - Closed

East Kootenay Regional Hospital 

13 24 Ave N, Cranbrook, BC V1C 3H9, Canada

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