Expert orthopaedic opinion
Rigorous, independent medico-legal assessments for personal injury, workers' compensation and medical negligence cases — with a subspecialty focus on the hand and upper limb.
Why instruct Dr Melsom?
Specialist expertise
Focussed hand and upper limb trauma experience, including microsurgery and peripheral nerve injury.
Academic credentials
FRCS (1998), FRACS (2010). Former lecturer in anatomy at the University of Cambridge — deep anatomical knowledge.
Clinical leadership
Former Director of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ipswich General Hospital (2008–2012), with extensive experience managing complex cases.
Rigorous methodology
GEPI 2nd Edition and AMA Guides 5th Edition assessments, with full methodology documentation and evidence-based reasoning.
Reliable turnaround
Reports delivered within 14–21 days of instruction — timely support for your case progression.
Expert testimony
Available for court attendance and expert witness testimony, with direct engagement with legal teams.
Assessment types
Permanent Impairment Assessment (WPI)
Comprehensive evaluation of whole-person impairment using GEPI 2nd Edition and AMA Guides 5th Edition. Suitable for personal injury, workers’ compensation and structured settlement negotiations.
Causation Opinion
Expert assessment of injury causation, mechanism and likelihood, supporting liability determination and negligence claims.
Treatment Critique & Medical Negligence
Independent review of clinical care, treatment appropriateness and deviation from standard practice; opinion on causation of complications or poor outcomes.
Future Medical Expenses
Assessment of ongoing treatment needs and reasonable future medical costs based on injury and impairment level.
Liability Assessment
Clinical opinion on breach of duty, causation and reasonableness of care, supporting settlement and litigation strategy.
Expert Witness Testimony
Court attendance and cross-examination support, with clear, professional communication of medical opinion.
Our process
Instruction
We receive instructions from your legal team with medical records, imaging and the specific questions to be addressed.
Review & assessment
Thorough review of all documentation, with clinical examination of the claimant where required.
Report preparation
A detailed report setting out methodology, findings and opinion, with full documentation of reasoning.
Delivery & support
Report delivered within 14–21 days, with ongoing support for clarifying questions or testimony.
Request an assessment
Contact the rooms to discuss your assessment requirements, a quote and availability. Please ask how to provide records before sending sensitive case information. You can call us on (07) 3870 0116.
Contact reception
Include your name, organisation and contact number in your initial enquiry.
Enquire by email