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  • 1.  When a FCE should be completed after fusions

    Posted 05-25-2023 14:40

    Hello Forensic Members,

    I am handling a forensic PI case where the doctor completes his FCE evaluations at the 3-month mark post-surgery. Common sense tells me the FCE should be completed after they have the ok to start resuming activities and after PT is completed. This would then provide a more accurate function of what they can do at a point where they have not been so sedentary while waiting for fusion. This method certainly does not provide the judge and jury with the patient's strongest physical point, but rather their lowest.  The doctor then sets his restrictions low to rule out work. It is a bit of a racket.  Does anyone have information as to when the FCE should be done to set proper restrictions? Protocols by the manufacturers regarding timelines would be great and anyone doing FCE's would be very welcome to respond. Any articles as well would be helpful. Thank you for your assistance,



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    [Cindy] [Fisher], [MA.,CRC, IPEC, ABVE/D]
    [Director of Vocational Services]
    [Cindy@VocationalConcepts.com]
    [Ellenton], [FL] [34222]
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  • 2.  RE: When a FCE should be completed after fusions

    Posted 05-25-2023 17:12
    Hi, Cindy:
    Are there FCE providers in your area whose reports you regularly see in files?  Phone calls to them would be a good place to start. Perhaps they would be willing to put in writing their opinions as to when an FCE after fusion surgery should be done and why. I agree, 3 months after surgery is too soon for an FCE after fusion.

    Best,
    --
    Michele Erbacher, MS, CRC, ABVE/F
    Erbacher Rehabilitation & Consulting
    Cell:  (716) 807-6708




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