About Orthopedic Surgeons

Orthopedic surgeons may have their own private practice or work in hospitals or emergency rooms. Orthopedic surgeons usually work hand-in-hand with plastic surgeons, podiatrists, pediatricians, and family practitioners. If you are in need of an orthopedic surgeon you will, most likely, be referred to one by your general practitioner.

Function

• Orthopedic surgeons use both surgical and non-surgical means to treat injuries to the musculoskeletal system. They are also concerned with genetic orthopedic conditions, such as cerebral palsy.

  Orthopedic surgeons may treat anything from amputation to joint replacement. Depending on their specialization an orthopedic surgeon may treat broken bones, sprains, and dislocations.

Type

• There are many types of orthopedic surgeons. Different surgeons have different specialties and, to get the best care possible for your specific problem, it pays to find a doctor who has the most experience with your problem.
  Most orthopedic surgeons specialize specifically in back surgery. If you are seeking treatment for someone under the age of 18, you will want to find a pediatric orthopedic surgeon. Children need a doctor who is familiar with their unique orthopedic concerns.

Misconceptions

• Many people believe that orthopedic surgeons are only concerned with alleviating back pain with surgery. In reality, orthopedic surgeons treat a variety of ailments and consider surgery to be a last resort. The fastest growing segment of orthopedic surgery deals with sports injuries, and the most common treatment prescribed by orthopedic surgeons is physical therapy.

Benefits

• Up to two thirds of people will experience back pain during their lives. An orthopedic surgeon can find the cause of back pain and come up with a treatment plan to lesson or cure this pain. You may also see an orthopedic surgeon to get relief from pain caused by sports injuries or genetic diseases such as cerebral palsy.

Risk Factors

• There are always some risks associated with orthopedic surgery. These risks can range from mild to serious infections, allergic reactions, and inflammation around the areas where pins or prosthesis have been surgically placed. The single most serious risk you take during orthopedic surgery is the possibility of damage to your spine or nerves.

  Orthopedic surgery is almost always done with the aid of anesthesia. There are some separate health concerns associated with the use of anesthesia. Your specific risks can be heavily influenced by your medical history, so you should always discuss the risks and rewards of anesthesia with both your orthopedic surgeon and the anesthesiologist.

  You can lower your risks significantly by using an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in your specific complaint. You should also question any potential doctors about their education and board certifications.