These are the questions Dubai patients ask most before an orthopaedic consultation, answered directly by me. Each answer points to the page that goes deeper.
Your questions, answered
Who is Dr Dhaval Sagala?
I am a Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon and I treat shoulder, knee and sports injuries in Dubai. I hold an MBBS and an MS in Orthopaedic Surgery, trained in fellowships in Pune and Seoul, and have practised in Dubai since 2016. Every credential is listed with a link you can check.
Where do you consult?
At Medcare Medical Centre in JBR, Monday to Saturday except Friday, and at Medcare Jumeirah on Fridays. Locations, address and how to reach each clinic.
How do I book an appointment?
Call or WhatsApp +971 553117577, or request an appointment online. The team confirms the day and clinic.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Your Emirates ID and insurance card, any scans and reports from other clinics, a list of current medication, and a short note on when the problem started and what makes it worse. Scan images on a disc or phone are reviewed in the visit.
What happens in the first consultation?
I take the history, examine the joint, review your imaging and explain what I find in plain language. If a scan is needed, I explain which one and why. You leave with a clear plan.
Do I always need surgery?
No. Rehabilitation, activity changes and injections resolve many shoulder and knee problems. Surgery is recommended when the structure cannot recover without it, and I explain the reasoning before you decide.
What is arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery?
Surgery through a few small incisions using a camera and fine instruments. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons describes how arthroscopy works. My fellowship training in knee and shoulder arthroscopy is why it is my first surgical option where it fits.
Which ACL graft do you use?
The choice is made with each patient from the hamstring, patellar tendon, quadriceps tendon and peroneus longus options. I am the author of a published systematic review comparing them: DOI 10.4103/jotr.jotr_17_24. The graft decision is explained here.
Can I get a second opinion on a scan or a surgical plan?
Yes. Bring the images and report. I review them with you and explain whether the plan fits the findings. I have a special interest in cases where an earlier operation has not worked.
What injuries are common in Dubai?
Padel and tennis shoulder and elbow problems, gym and CrossFit shoulder injuries, running knee pain, football ligament injuries and falls. See padel injuries in Dubai and returning to sport after an injury.
What if I have shoulder pain at night?
Night pain points to specific shoulder problems. This guide explains the common causes and when to be assessed.
Is knee replacement an option for me?
It is considered when knee arthritis limits daily life and non-surgical care has stopped helping. Joint replacement, robotic-assisted knee replacement and the NHS knee replacement guide explain the path.
What should I do after a bad fall or accident?
Go to the nearest emergency department. Orthopaedic follow-up with me starts once emergency care is done. See fracture care.
Which languages are consultations in?
English, Hindi and Gujarati.
How do I check your credentials?
Use the links on the verification page: the Medcare physician page, the Medeor Hospital Dubai doctor page, my published research and my verified Prezlo profile.
Ask your question in a consultation
Call or WhatsApp +971 553117577, request an appointment online, or see the contact page for the address and consultation days. I examine the problem, review any scans you bring and explain each option before any decision is made.