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

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.

 

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This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If in doubt, HealthEngine recommends consulting with a registered health practitioner.