Independent Medical Evaluations (IMEs) Explained
Question | Vascular Neurosurgery IME | Spinal Orthopedic IME |
---|---|---|
1. What is the purpose of the evaluation? | To assess and diagnose conditions related to blood vessels in the brain and/or spine. | To evaluate and diagnose conditions related to the spinal column and associated structures. |
2. What types of medical professionals conduct these evaluations? | Neurosurgeons specializing in vascular disorders of the brain and/or spine. | Orthopedic surgeons specializing in spinal conditions and diseases. |
3. What conditions or injuries are typically assessed? | Conditions such as brain aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), and spinal vascular malformations. | Conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and degenerative disc diseases. |
4. What diagnostic tests or procedures are commonly used? | Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT) scan, and angiography. | X-ray, MRI, CT scan, and electromyography (EMG). |
5. Are surgical interventions typically recommended? | Yes, vascular neurosurgeons may recommend surgical treatments such as endovascular embolization or craniotomy. | Yes, orthopedic surgeons may recommend surgical treatments such as spinal fusion or laminectomy. |
6. What is the recovery time following surgical interventions? | Recovery time can vary depending on the specific procedure performed, but it may take weeks to months for complete recovery. | Recovery time can vary depending on the specific procedure performed, but it may take weeks to months for complete recovery. |
7. Can non-surgical treatments be considered? | Yes, non-surgical treatments such as medications or minimally invasive techniques may be recommended. | Yes, non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, pain management, or epidural injections may be recommended. |
8. How long does the evaluation usually take? | The evaluation can take several hours, including the review of medical records and previous imaging results. | The evaluation can take several hours, including the review of medical records and previous imaging results. |
9. Who typically requests these evaluations? | Neurologists, primary care physicians, or attorneys involved in personal injury or medical malpractice cases. | Orthopedic surgeons, primary care physicians, or attorneys involved in personal injury or workers’ compensation cases. |
10. What is the cost of the evaluation? | The cost may vary depending on the complexity of the case and the healthcare facility where the evaluation is conducted. | The cost may vary depending on the complexity of the case and the healthcare facility where the evaluation is conducted. |