For patients considering surgery abroad, knowing who will perform their operation matters as much as choosing the hospital. Qualifications, relevant experience and a clear explanation of treatment all help turn uncertainty into an informed decision. Sara Gezdari of My Medical Gateway introduces Dr Edvinas Pranevičius, a Lithuanian orthopaedic surgeon specialising in hip and knee replacement, sports injuries and arthroscopic surgery. Based at Meliva Hospital in Kaunas, Dr Pranevičius combines specialist training in Lithuania with international experience, including a clinical fellowship in Sweden.
Dr Edvinas Pranevičius is listed as Head of Orthopaedics at Meliva Hospital Kaunas within the My Medical Gateway network. His practice covers joint disorders, sports injuries, arthroscopic surgery and joint replacement. He completed his medical education and specialist training at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, followed by international training, including a clinical fellowship at Lund University Hospital in Sweden.
In this Meet the Surgeon feature, we explore the questions UK patients should ask when considering orthopaedic treatment.
What conditions does your practice cover?
My work includes conditions affecting the knee, hip, shoulder and ankle, ranging from injuries to degenerative joint disease. Different problems require different approaches. Some patients need advice and rehabilitation; others may benefit from surgery. The starting point is understanding the diagnosis, how symptoms affect everyday life and what treatment has already been tried. The aim is to identify an appropriate treatment for the individual patient.
When should someone with hip or knee pain seek specialist advice?
When pain, stiffness or reduced movement begins to interfere with ordinary activities, it is reasonable to seek an assessment. Patients may find walking, climbing stairs or sleeping increasingly difficult. A consultation does not automatically lead to an operation. It provides an opportunity to establish what is causing the symptoms, review previous investigations and discuss the available options. Patients should understand their condition before deciding what to do.
Does seeing a surgeon mean a joint replacement is inevitable?
No. Joint replacement is one possible treatment, rather than the starting assumption. The decision depends on the diagnosis, the severity of symptoms, the effect on daily life and whether other treatments provide sufficient relief. Exercise, physiotherapy, suitable medication and walking aids may all have a role. If surgery is considered, the discussion should include its likely benefits, limitations and risks, alongside the alternatives.
What should patients ask about a surgeon’s experience?
Ask about experience with the particular operation being considered, rather than surgery generally. Relevant specialist training, hospital facilities and the arrangements for rehabilitation and follow-up also matter. My international development has included training in Sweden and Zimmer Biomet courses in knee and hip replacement. Patients should feel comfortable asking how their proposed treatment fits the surgeon’s practice and why it is being recommended.
Can existing NHS letters and scans help someone explore their options?
Existing information can provide a useful starting point. Clinic letters, scan reports and details of previous treatment help explain the history of the problem. Through MMG, patients can have a free preliminary doctor consultation using information they already possess. That conversation helps them explore their options; it does not establish eligibility for surgery. The treating hospital must specify and review the up-to-date diagnostics required before confirming clinical acceptance.
What should a patient clarify before travelling abroad for surgery?
The practical arrangements deserve careful attention. Patients should know who is performing the operation, what the package includes, how long they may need to remain locally and what support is available after discharge. They should also understand the arrangements for rehabilitation, follow-up and any complications. Travel plans must reflect clinical advice, including when it is appropriate to return home. These questions should be resolved before making commitments.
How important is preparation and rehabilitation?
The operation is only one part of treatment. Preparation includes checking that the patient is fit for surgery and planning the support needed afterwards. Rehabilitation helps patients rebuild movement, strength and confidence, following advice tailored to their procedure. Recovery from joint replacement takes time and varies between individuals. Patients should discuss realistic expectations and make practical arrangements at home, including help with everyday tasks while their mobility is limited.
What would you say to someone who is interested but hesitant?
Start with questions rather than a booking. Gather the medical information you have, explain what you want treatment to achieve and ask MMG about the options. Make sure you understand both the clinical recommendation and the practical journey. A decision about surgery should be informed and considered. Clear explanations, realistic expectations and a defined plan for recovery help patients decide whether proceeding is right for them.
Explore your options with MMG
Visit Dr Pranevičius’s profile at https://www.mymedicalgateway.com/hospitals/lithuania/meliva-hospital-kaunas/surgeons/edvinas-pranevi%C4%8Dius/, compare Treatment Packages at Meliva Kaunas at https://www.mymedicalgateway.com/hospitals/lithuania/meliva-hospital-kaunas, or arrange a free preliminary doctor consultation by emailing [email protected].
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