Orthopedic surgery is a medical specialty that performs the treatment of the musculo-skeletal system. This includes the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves of your body. Orthopedic surgeons perform a variety of surgical and non-surgical treatments to address the problems of the musculoskeletal system.
Sub-specialties of Orthopedic Surgery
The field of orthopedics has grown to comprise many sub-categories and the treatment of a vast array of musculoskeletal disorders in patients.
Some of the common sub-specialties that orthopedists handle include:
• Foot and ankle surgery
• Hand surgery
• Hip and knee reconstruction.
• Pediatric orthopedics
• Spinal disorders
• Sports medicine
• Trauma surgery
There are other conditions and sub-specialties also treated by orthopedists. These surgeons often have to work closely with other doctors to handle complex problems.
Orthopedic surgeons operate directly with primary care doctors, pediatricians, anesthesiologists, and emergency doctors. In addition, orthopedists often work with other non-medical doctors, including medical assistants, athletic trainers, orthopedic technologists, nurse practitioners, and others.
In Australia, an orthopedic surgeon by the likes of Gordon Slater has earned massive popularity due to his expertise. He specializes in ankle surgery, foot surgery, arthroscopy, and sports-related injuries. Dr. Slater is also an expert at minimally invasive foot surgery.
Orthopedic Surgical Specialties
Common types of Surgery:
Most orthopedic surgical procedures involve bones or joints. Some surgeries can be performed arthroscopically (looking inside a joint with a camera), others through minimal incisions, and others have larger and more invasive incisions.
Some of the orthopedic surgical procedures that are performed most frequently include ACL reconstruction, meniscus repair, and knee replacement.
It is important to reinforce the fact that the vast majority of people treated by an orthopedic surgeon never need to go to an operating room to receive treatment. While many have the perception that for the treatment to be successful, the problem needs surgical repair that is not always the case.
Most orthopedic problems can be treated non-surgically. However, there are some situations in which the best option may be a surgical procedure.
Three things you should know before having surgery
What to expect: Make sure you know what your procedure entails and that you are prepared for it by asking your doctor good questions. Making sure you have the equipment, medications, and any other things you need after surgery in advance will help you greatly. Write any other questions you have for your doctor and take this list to your appointment. When your doctor gives you the answers, be sure to write the answer, so you don't forget.
Types of anesthesia: There are several anesthesia options for most surgical procedures. Not all options are equally effective for each surgical procedure, and some options may be safer for particular patients. Discuss what may be best for your individual surgical procedure with your doctor and anesthesiologist.
