Orthopaedics is a branch of medical science that deals with the diseases and injury of the musculoskeletal system of the body. The musculoskeletal system is a complex system present in the body that includes bones, ligaments, joints, muscles, tendons and nerves, and allows the various kinds of movements done by the body. There was a time when Orthopaedists were solely devoted to providing care to children suffering from limb and spine deformities, but now they cater to the needs of everyone. Now, there are specialised orthopaedists that provide special care to athletes and sportspersons.
What does an Orthopaedic Surgeon do?
Orthopaedic surgeons treat various kinds of problems related to the musculoskeletal system. It may involve:
- Diagnosing the disorder or injury
- Treating the condition with medication, casting, exercise, surgery etc.
- Rehabilitation of the treated condition by recommending exercises and physiotherapy
- Prevention with treatment plans and information so as to prevent injury.
Surgical Treatment
- Complex Trauma & Fracture Management —The general principles of fracture management is to reduce the fracture (open or closed) in a manner that will restore normal anatomy and maintain the reduced position through an immobilization/fixation technique that is sufficient to withstand the potential for loss of reduction through deforming or external forces.
- Joint Replacement — The process of replacing a damaged or arthritic joint with an artificial one is covered in joint replacement surgery.
- Arthroscopy — This is a specialised procedure that utilises the use of special high-res cameras that are capable of visualizing, diagnosing and treating problems inside a joint.
- Deformity Correction & Ilizarov Surgery — This involves correction of an existing congenital or later bone deformity by either repositioning or cutting the bone.
