Orthopaedic Surgery

An orthopaedic surgeon is a surgeon who manages patients with bone, joint and muscle disorders that require surgery as part of their management.

Medical Conditions

Arthritis and joint replacement
Fractures / broken bones
Joint infections (septic arthritis)
Osteomyelitis
Paediatric orthopaedics (related to children)
Spinal orthopaedics (back problems)
Hand injuries
Sports injuries
Bone tumours and cancers

Specialty Areas of Interest

Joint replacement surgery
Arthroscopic surgery
Spinal surgery
Paediatric orthopaedic surgery
Trauma
Hand surgery
Sports medicine
Oncology

Associated Tests

X-Rays
CT scans
MRI scans
Arthroscopy
Bone scans

Procedures

Numerous operations including:

Arthroscopy - minimally invasive surgery where the surgeon inserts a tiny camera into the joint to explore it. They can repair minor problems arthroscopically.
Joint replacement - joints that are severely worn often require replacement with artificial ones. These joints commonly include the hip, knee and shoulder but can include many other joints too.
Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) - a broken bone is straightened and fixed into the correct position using metal plates, wires, screws or nails.

What to expect

History

An orthopaedic surgeon will want to know about you current problem as well as previous problems you may have had relating to your bones and joints.
The surgeon will ask how the affected body part impairs your function so they can work out the best way to proceed - deciding on further tests and possible operative management.

Examination

The orthopaedic surgeon will examine the affected body part in detail. They usually begin by looking at the area - if it is your back, hip or shoulder you may have to partially undress. They then feel the area and finally move the area. They may perform some special tests to further assess the region and make a decision on appropriate further management.

Training and Qualifications

Links

* Orthopedic – American spelling of Orthopaedic.