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Hospitals:

Fairview Ridges Hospital
Fairview Southdale Hospital

Surgery Centers: 

Crosstown Surgery Center
Eagan Orthopedic Surgery Center

We most often treat conditions of the hands, carpal tunnel, arthritis, and Dupuytren’s arthritis. Our approach is a combination of both conservative and surgical treatments, which varies depending on each individual patient.

If you are a new patient, please arrive to your appointment early in order to complete the registration process. In addition, please bring the following:

• Driver’s License or State ID
• Referral (if required by insurer)
• Insurance information
• Copies of operation records, medical records, x-rays, MRIs and CT scans from prior doctor visits
• List of current medications and any known allergies

It depends, as each patient’s situation is unique. If you have any questions, please contact your doctor’s care team before your appointment, and we will be very happy to address any of your questions.

Yes, absolutely. The more information we have regarding your unique situation and past history, the better equipped we are to provide the highest level of care. Bringing any previous x-rays, scans, and/or documentation (if available) is recommended. If you do not have this information, don’t worry; we will still take great care of you.

Ice should be used during the acute phase (first 24 to 48 hours) following an injury, or whenever there is swelling. Ice decreases blood flow to the area, which in turn decreases swelling and inflammation. Heat does the opposite. It increases blood flow to the area and can provide pain relief once the swelling and inflammation have subsided. Heat is good to use prior to doing any exercises or physical therapy as it warms up your muscles.

You can use the General Contact Form on the Contact & Locations page of this website to get in touch with Dr. Koch regarding second opinions or contact us via phone to set up an appointment or speak with a member of our care team.

You can get cortisone injections every 3 to 4 months as long as they continue to provide symptomatic relief.

Some patients get immediate relief from a cortisone injection. For others, it may take up to 2 weeks for the injection to take effect. However, most people notice relief within 2 to 3 days. The duration of a cortisone injection can vary greatly. Some will last as long as a year, whereas others may last only a few days. It is also important to know that occasionally pain can get worse following a cortisone injection before it gets better. In the meantime, over the counter pain medications and ice are recommended.

The Crosstown Surgery Center is a 21,000+ square foot facility located at Twin Cities Orthopedics – Edina, offering patients a convenient, complete and coordinated orthopedic care solution at one location. With six surgery suites, a procedure room and several free amenities for families, the Crosstown Surgery Center is a premier orthopedic facility in Minnesota. Click here to learn more.

The Eagan Orthopedic Surgery Center is a 23,000+ square foot facility located at Twin Cities Orthopedics Eagan – Viking Lakes, offering patients a convenient, complete, and coordinated orthopedic care solution at one location. With six surgery suites and several free amenities for families, the Eagan Orthopedic Surgery Center is a premier orthopedic facility in Minnesota. Click here to learn more.

If you have already had imaging studies done, surgery recommended or have a longstanding problem, consider setting up a Virtual Consultation. To set up a face-to-face appointment call your doctor’s Care Coordinator at 952-808-3000.

When a patient sees me for the first time, I always remind them that “today is not a decision-making day.” The initial visit is about fact-gathering, listening to your story, and learning more about you. I’ll then examine your concerns, review x-rays if you have them, and begin to build a list of options for you. I want you to feel comfortable and relaxed, so I can understand how best to help you.

If you have records from another physician, provider, or hospital you may bring them with you to your appointment. If you do not have a copy, please contact the physician, provider, or hospital prior to your TCO appointment to let them know we will be requesting them.

Yes, of course. Feel free to have family members or friends join you in your consultation. Many patients find it is helpful to have support in the room, even just as an extra set of ears to remember the details of the visit.

After your appointment, or after surgery, you can expect prompt and accessible follow-up treatment. Care continues long after surgery and we want to be a part of your complete healing process. If you ever have questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

If you have any questions about your visit, please contact Dr. Koch’s care coordinator, by phone at 952-808-3000 or by using the General Contact Form. She will be happy to further assist you.

If an MRI scan or other diagnostic test was ordered, you will be called with the results once available.

The amount of time will vary depending on each unique patient and each unique procedure. Please feel free to discuss this with us in your appointment, or contact us directly with any questions. You may call our clinic or email us using the General Contact Form.

The timeframe for recovery depends on the procedure and the individual, but it is our goal to get you back to your regular lifestyle as fast as possible. You can discuss your likely recovery time at your appointment.

Each individual will experience different pain levels, but it is our goal to have you feeling 100% as soon as possible. To get an idea of the pain expectations for your individual case, please discuss with Dr. Koch at your appointment.

Please note that we strive to get our patients off narcotic pain medication as soon as possible. It can be needed shortly after surgery, but we do not advocate long-term use of pain medication. We take pain medication very seriously and make sure it is necessary before signing a prescription for any patient.