Rheumatology

Rheumatology is a medical specialty encompassing the full range of rheumatic disorders, including common diseases such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Less common diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis and autoimmune conditions such as lupus and scleroderma are also included.

The Rheumatology Department at St Vincent’s Private Hospital Sydney includes highly trained specialists who meet the challenges in diagnosis and management of these disorders.

Our rheumatologists frequently liaise with our colleagues in Orthopaedic Surgery and Neurology and arrange case conferences for patients who present a challenge in management. We also work closely with allied health professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists and podiatrists.

Members of the department also have an interest in ongoing chronic pain syndromes, spinal pain disorders and osteoporosis. In addition to providing clinical services, we’re engaged in teaching and research into some of the rheumatic disorders and therapeutic clinical trials. Over the years we’ve conducted clinical trials of new therapies in rheumatoid arthritis and particularly in gout, with the collaboration of Professor Ric Day, Director of Clinical Pharmacology.

Patients who wish to consult any member of the Rheumatology Department require a referral from their GP.

Our Specialists

Dr Christopher Browne (Chairman)

Professor Richard Day

Dr Terry Kwong

Professor Milton Cohen

Dr Laila Girgis

Dr Lee-Anne May

Dr Malcolm Handel