October 12, 2023

Orthopedic Surgeons: 7 Things You Need to Know

Orthopedic surgeons play a crucial role in the field of medicine, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. These conditions encompass a wide range of issues, from sports injuries to chronic joint pain and everything in between. If you’ve ever wondered about orthopedic surgeons and their role in healthcare, here are seven essential things you need to know.

1. Orthopedic Specialties

Orthopedic surgery is a broad field, and orthopedic surgeons often choose to specialize in specific areas. Understanding these subspecialties can help you find the right surgeon for your condition.

• Sports Medicine: These specialists focus on injuries related to sports and physical activity. They work with athletes and active individuals to diagnose and treat conditions like torn ligaments, fractures, and muscle injuries.
• Joint Replacement: Joint replacement surgeons specialize in procedures like hip and knee replacements. They help patients with severe joint pain regain mobility and improve their quality of life.
• Spine Surgery: Spine surgeons deal with conditions affecting the spine, such as herniated discs, scoliosis, and spinal deformities. They perform surgeries to correct these issues and relieve pain.
• Pediatric Orthopedics: Pediatric orthopedic surgeons work with children and adolescents. They treat conditions like congenital deformities, growth plate injuries, and scoliosis in young patients.
• Trauma Surgery: Trauma surgeons are often involved in emergency situations, such as car accidents or falls, where bones are broken or dislocated. They specialize in repairing these acute injuries.
• Hand Surgery: Hand surgeons treat conditions affecting the hand and wrist, including fractures, carpal tunnel syndrome, and conditions requiring microsurgery.
• Foot and Ankle Surgery: These specialists focus on issues with the feet and ankles, such as fractures, bunions, and Achilles tendon injuries.

Understanding these subspecialties can help you identify the right orthopedic surgeon for your needs.

2. Extensive Education and Training

Becoming an orthopedic surgeon is no small feat. It requires years of rigorous education and training. Typically, the path to becoming an orthopedic surgeon looks like this:

• Undergraduate Degree: First, aspiring surgeons complete a bachelor’s degree, often in a science-related field.
• Medical School: After earning a bachelor’s degree, they attend medical school, which typically takes four years.
• Residency: Following medical school, they enter a five-year orthopedic surgery residency program. During this time, they gain hands-on experience in various orthopedic specialties.
• Fellowship (Optional): Some orthopedic surgeons pursue additional training through fellowships. Fellowships provide specialized expertise in sports medicine, joint replacement, or pediatric orthopedics.

This extensive education and training ensure that orthopedic surgeons are well-prepared to effectively diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions.

3. Board Certification

Board certification is a significant milestone in an orthopedic surgeon’s career. It signifies their commitment to maintaining high standards of patient care and staying current with the latest advancements in their field. The American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS) is the certifying body for orthopedic surgeons in the United States.

To achieve board certification, orthopedic surgeons must:

• Complete their orthopedic residency.
• Pass a written examination.
• Pass an oral examination.

Maintaining board certification requires ongoing education and recertification exams to ensure that surgeons stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and best practices.

4. A Broad Range of Treatment Options

Orthopedic surgeons offer a wide array of treatment options for musculoskeletal conditions. These options can be broadly categorized into two main groups:

• Non-Surgical Treatments: Many orthopedic conditions can be effectively managed without surgery. These non-surgical approaches include physical therapy, medications, injections, and lifestyle modifications.
• Surgical Interventions: When non-surgical treatments don’t provide sufficient relief, surgery may be recommended. Orthopedic surgeons are skilled in various surgical procedures, from arthroscopy (minimally invasive surgery) to joint replacement and complex spinal surgeries.

Treatment choice depends on the specific condition, its severity, and the patient’s circumstances. Orthopedic surgeons work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their needs and goals.

5. Patient-Centered Care

Orthopedic surgeons are not just skilled technicians but healthcare providers dedicated to patient-centered care. This means they consider each patient’s unique needs, preferences, and circumstances when developing treatment plans.

Orthopedic surgeons take the time to listen to their patients, understand their goals, and involve them in the decision-making process. They prioritize open communication and ensure patients are well-informed about their condition and treatment options.

Patient-centered care extends beyond the operating room. Orthopedic surgeons collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists, to provide comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of a patient’s well-being.

6. Recovery and Rehabilitation

Orthopedic treatment often involves a post-operative recovery and rehabilitation plan. After surgery, patients typically go through a period of recovery, during which they need to follow specific instructions to ensure a successful outcome.

Rehabilitation is a crucial component of the recovery process. Orthopedic surgeons work closely with physical therapists to develop tailored rehabilitation programs. These programs focus on restoring mobility, strength, and function while minimizing pain and discomfort.

Patients are actively involved in their rehabilitation process, and their commitment to following the prescribed exercises and rehabilitation plan plays a significant role in the success of their treatment.

7. Choosing the Right Surgeon

Choosing the right orthopedic surgeon is a critical decision. Here are some tips to help you find the best surgeon for your needs:

• Check Credentials: Verify that the surgeon is board-certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS).
• Read Patient Reviews: Look for patient reviews and testimonials to gain insight into the surgeon’s reputation and patient satisfaction.
• Seek Recommendations: Ask your primary care physician or other healthcare professionals for recommendations.
• Consider Experience: Inquire about the surgeon’s experience with your specific condition or procedure.
• Communication: Ensure that you feel comfortable communicating with the surgeon and that they take the time to answer your questions and address your concerns.
• Hospital Affiliation: Find out which hospitals or surgical centers the surgeon is affiliated with to ensure convenient access to necessary facilities.

In conclusion, orthopedic surgeons are highly trained medical professionals specializing in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions. Their expertise spans a wide range of specialties, from sports medicine to joint replacement and beyond. If you ever need orthopedic care, understanding these seven key aspects of orthopedic surgery can help you make informed decisions about your treatment and care. Remember that your orthopedic surgeon is a partner in your healthcare journey, committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome and quality of life.