Can you diagnose my problem over video?

Dr. Zalikha can provide an expert assessment based on your imaging, records, and symptom history. Some conditions can be diagnosed with confidence based on X-rays and clinical information alone (for example, bone-on-bone arthritis). Other conditions may require an in-person examination to fully evaluate. Dr. Zalikha will be transparent about the limitations of a virtual assessment when they apply.

What imaging do I need to send?

At a minimum, recent X-rays of the affected hip or knee are necessary. If you have had an MRI, CT scan, or bone scan, those should be included as well. For revision cases, prior operative reports and implant identification records are extremely helpful. Dr. Zalikha's office will guide you on what to submit.

How long is the consultation?

Virtual consultations are typically 20 to 30 minutes, though the length varies depending on the complexity of the case. The pre-consultation record review is done separately so that the video time is used efficiently.

Is the $600 fee refundable?

The fee is non-refundable but is applied toward pre-operative planning costs if you choose to proceed with surgery with Dr. Zalikha.

Can I use this for a second opinion on a surgery someone else recommended?

Absolutely. This is one of the most common reasons patients request a virtual consultation. Dr. Zalikha will review the recommendation independently and provide his honest assessment of whether surgery is appropriate, whether the proposed approach is sound, and whether alternative options exist.

Virtual Second Opinion | Dr. Leo Zalikha

Virtual Second Opinion for Joint Replacement

Not everyone can travel to Long Beach for an in-person consultation. Dr. Leo Zalikha offers a virtual second opinion service for patients anywhere who want expert guidance on a hip or knee problem.

Stanford Fellowship-Trained30+ PublicationsLong Beach & Greater LAVirtual Second Opinions

This is a thorough, one-on-one video consultation with a Stanford fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hip and knee replacement. It is not a quick screening call. Dr. Zalikha reviews your medical records, imaging, and history before the appointment and spends focused time discussing your diagnosis, treatment options, and surgical plan.

Who This Is For

A virtual second opinion is valuable if:

You have been told you need hip or knee replacement and want a fellowship-trained specialist to confirm the recommendation or discuss alternatives
Your current hip or knee replacement is causing problems and you want expert evaluation before pursuing revision surgery
You have a complex case involving infection, bone loss, periprosthetic fracture, or prior failed surgery and want an opinion from a surgeon trained in revision arthroplasty
You live outside the Long Beach/Los Angeles area and want to determine whether traveling for surgical care is worthwhile before making the trip
You want clarity on your options and are unsure whether conservative treatment or surgery is the right path

What Is Included

Pre-Consultation Review

Before the video appointment, Dr. Zalikha reviews the medical records and imaging you provide. This includes X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, operative reports from prior surgeries, and any relevant lab work. The review happens before the consultation so that the time spent with you is focused on discussion, not on reading records for the first time.

Video Consultation

During the appointment, Dr. Zalikha will:
Discuss your symptoms, history, and concerns in detail
Review your imaging with you and explain what the studies show
Provide his assessment of your diagnosis and the available treatment options
Discuss whether surgery is indicated and, if so, what approach he would recommend
Answer your questions

Written Summary

After the consultation, you will receive a written summary of Dr. Zalikha's assessment and recommendations. This can be shared with your local physician or used to guide your next steps.

01. Request a consultation:

Complete the request form or call (562) 362-5024 to schedule.

02. Submit your records:

Dr. Zalikha's office will provide instructions for uploading or sending your imaging and medical records securely.

03. Meet via video:

The consultation takes place over a secure video platform at your scheduled time.

04. Receive your summary:

A written summary of the assessment is provided after the appointment.

Investment

The virtual second opinion consultation is $600. This is a self-pay service and is not billed to insurance.

The fee covers the pre-consultation record review, the video consultation with Dr. Zalikha, and the written summary of his assessment.

If Surgery Is Recommended

If Dr. Zalikha determines that surgery is appropriate and you choose to proceed with him as your surgeon, the virtual consultation fee is applied toward the cost of pre-operative planning. The office will coordinate insurance authorization, scheduling, and travel logistics for out-of-area patients.

Dr. Zalikha operates at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center, the Surgery Center of Long Beach, and DISC Sports & Spine Center in Marina del Rey. For patients traveling to Long Beach for surgery, the office can provide guidance on accommodations and logistics.

Request a virtual second opinion with Dr. Zalikha. Call (562) 362-5024 or complete the consultation request form to get started.