Medico-Legal Services

Medical Record Review

Comprehensive record analysis without physical examination

Fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon
Active clinical spine practice
Objective, evidence-based opinions
Peer-reviewed literature citations
Deposition and trial-ready

What You Receive

Detailed written opinion based on thorough record review
Chronological summary of medical treatment
Analysis of imaging studies and radiology reports
Opinion on diagnosis accuracy
Assessment of treatment appropriateness and medical necessity
Causation opinion (if records support)
Identification of gaps, inconsistencies, or red flags
Literature citations supporting conclusions

Process & Timeline

1

Submit Records

Send medical records and case details

2

Evaluation

Thorough review and examination

3

Report Delivery

Comprehensive written opinion, typically 2-3 weeks

Who This Service Is For

Attorneys needing case screening before requesting IME
Insurance carriers evaluating claim validity
Defense counsel assessing treatment reasonableness
Plaintiff counsel evaluating case merit
Employers reviewing workers' compensation claims

When Record Review Is Appropriate

Medical record review is ideal when:

  • You need an initial case screening before investing in full IME
  • The case is primarily a "paper review" (treatment appropriateness, billing review)
  • Distance or logistics make in-person examination impractical
  • You need rebuttal to an opposing expert's opinions
  • Settlement negotiations require quick medical opinion

Limitations of Record Review

Without physical examination, certain opinions cannot be definitively rendered:

  • Current functional capacity and work restrictions
  • Impairment ratings (physical examination required for AMA Guides)
  • Detailed causation analysis when clinical examination findings are critical
  • Maximum medical improvement determination in some cases

Dr. Rastegar will clearly state when a physical examination is necessary to answer specific questions and can schedule IME if needed after initial record review.

What Is Evaluated

Neutral, Defensible Opinions

Evidence-Based Methodology: All opinions are grounded in objective clinical findings, peer-reviewed literature, and established medical guidelines—not advocacy.

Equal Treatment: Whether representing plaintiff or defense, each case receives the same rigorous, unbiased analysis focused solely on the medical facts.

Deposition-Ready: Reports are written to withstand scrutiny, with clear rationale and supporting medical evidence for every conclusion.

Records Needed

  • Complete medical records related to the condition
  • All imaging studies with radiology reports (MRI, CT, X-rays)
  • Operative reports if surgery was performed
  • Physical therapy notes and progress reports
  • Emergency department records from injury date
  • Pre-injury medical records (critical for causation analysis)
  • Pharmacy records showing medication history
  • Any prior IME or medical opinions
  • Deposition transcripts if available

Submit a Case

We respond to all inquiries within 24 business hours.

Credentials

  • Board-certified, ABOS
  • FAAOS designation
  • Cleveland Clinic Fellowship
  • Licensed: OH, KY, MI, CA

Submit Your Case Inquiry

Get an objective, evidence-based medical opinion within 2-3 weeks

Professional Affiliations

AAOS • NASS • AMA • Cleveland Clinic • University of Chicago • UCLA • OHSU