subject: Have An Orthopedic Surgeon Fix Your Joints [print this page] Medical physicians trained in diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system are orthopedic surgeons. Even though they are classically trained in surgical procedures, many non-surgical treatment modalities are used to improve function after trauma, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infection, tumor, and a variety of congenital disorders.
An orthopedic surgeon training schedule is rigorous and extensive. In addition to the usual four years of medical school, physicians must complete a five-year residency program which typically includes one year of general surgery or internal medicine training and four years of specific musculoskeletal training. Board certification is governed by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Separate standardized examinations can be completed to achieve an advanced Certificate of Added Qualification (CAQ). Subspecialties that an orthopedic surgeon may elect to undertake include hands, shoulders, elbows, knees, feet and ankles, musculoskeletal oncology, sports medicine and trauma.
The most common procedures performed by this type of physician are knee arthroscopy and meniscectomy, followed by shoulder arthroscopy and decompression. Other common procedures include carpal tunnel release, support implant removal, anterior cruciate ligament repair, clavicle excision, laminectomy, finger tendon sheath incision, ankle fracture repair, total knee replacement, hip replacement, repair of femoral neck or trochanteric fracture, lumbar spinal fusion, as well as debridement of skin or muscle.
Arthroscopic techniques were first developed in the 1950s and are minimally invasive ways to repair cartilage and ligaments, reducing adverse risks and shortening post-operative recovery time. Most musculoskeletal surgeries are currently performed via arthroscope, which uses a small camera to evaluate or treat a variety of cartilage and ligament dysfunctions. Joint replacements are another common procedure used to repair fractures due to trauma or delay the requirement for more invasive replacements later in life. The biggest drawback to joint replacement therapy is the wear of component surfaces that bear weight. While this may not be a significant factor to consider in elderly patients only expected to live another five or ten years, younger patients should be warned of the eventual failure of the implant. Development of ceramic and all-metal implants may improve longevity of the implant.
The main goal of an orthopedic surgeon is to restore function after trauma, disease or injury. Patients are usually referred via their primary care physician or after a visit to an emergency room. Young patients are often seen after motor vehicle accidents or sports injuries. Elderly patients are commonly treated after falls. Recommendations for treatment vary widely depending on the current health of the patient, desired goals, and level of function lost.
Examinations and tests that an orthopedic surgeon may order include x-rays, MRIs, CT scans and/or laboratory analysis of blood. This type of physician is responsible for meeting with the patient before and after surgery in order to address questions and outline expectations for recovery. Follow-up medical support is often coordinated by the doctor in order to monitor progress and assess any need for further treatment.
Talk to your primary care physician or an orthopedic surgeon in your area today to discuss your musculoskeletal disorders and healthcare needs.
