People who suffer from problems in their bones, muscles, and connecting tissues consult an orthopedic doctor. Orthopedic surgeons are experts in treating people with problems in their musculoskeletal system. They are well-versed in a variety of treatment methods in different areas of the body.
Roles And Specialties
Orthopedic surgeons perform operations on injured muscles and bones. These surgeries can help improve an injured person’s healing, function, and quality of life. Some surgeons specialize in performing delicate surgeries in specific fields. Hand and shoulder specialties are just a few examples.
Treatment Procedures
Orthopedic surgeons are capable of doing a lot of things, and their forte is surgery. They can do delicate surgeries on your body. These surgeries vary depending on what body part needs repair or replacement. Here are a few procedures orthopedic surgeons typically perform:
Bone Fracture Care
Fractures are a common bone injury, most especially in the collarbone, arm, and wrist. Bone fractures usually require casts for realignment and proper healing. Some fractures will need surgery by an orthopedic specialist.
Orthopedic surgeons may perform an open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) or closed reduction external fixation. Surgical hardware such as rods, screws, and metal plates may be used. Because fractures take months for full recovery, regular monitoring by your bone doctor is crucial.
Cartilage Repair And Surgeries
Cartilage is a smooth, rubbery substance that exists between joints. Bone cartilage protects or cushions our bones when moving and provides a smooth surface for bones to glide in joints. Physical injuries may cause the cartilage to tear. Other medical conditions, such as arthritis, may also lead to the wear and tear of the cartilage.
Cartilage has no blood supply and cannot heal on its own. Orthopedic surgeons usually treat cartilage tears through arthroscopy. It is a minimally invasive procedure that requires small incisions and the use of tiny surgical instruments.
Ligament And Tendon Repairs
Ligaments are tissues connecting bones to other bones, while tendons connect bones to muscles. Some conditions that impact ligaments include hand flexor and extensor tendon injuries or wrist and shoulder tendonitis. Ligament injuries, such as carpal or wrist instability, may happen with fractures, dislocations, and arthritis.
Your ligament repair specialist or orthopedic surgeon may recommend surgery when non-surgical options fail to reduce pain, discomfort, and loss of function caused by inflammation. Tendon repair is also needed when a tendon ruptures due to an accident or medical condition.
Tendon transfers are an area of expertise of orthopedic surgeons. This surgical procedure involves the transfer of a working tendon to replace an injured or paralyzed one. Tendon transfers in the wrist or hand allow patients to grasp objects and use their hands once again despite a permanent injury to nerves or muscles.
Joint Surgeries
Injury to the joints is unavoidable because these structures allow for movement and are used all the time. Fortunately, advancements in surgery allow for minimally invasive procedures, such as arthroscopy and arthroplasty. Arthroplasty is the surgical replacement of damaged joints with artificial materials.
Expert Orthopedic Surgeon In Palm Beach County, Florida
Orthopedic surgeons take pride in their years of experience and knowledge to give you the best treatment possible. With their knowledge, they operate on all sorts of orthopedic injuries you may have. To help you heal and recover better, you need to find the best orthopedic surgeon you can trust.
If you reside near Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, or other nearby areas in Florida, Dr. Steve Meadows of South Palm Orthopedics is a well-known hand and upper extremity surgeon in South Florida. He has nearly thirty years of experience in private practice as a board-certified orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Meadows can treat your injuries and help you regain your physical abilities through proper diagnosis and treatment.
Get in touch with Dr. Meadows to schedule an appointment. Give our friendly staff a call at 561-496-6622 or use our convenient appointment request form online.
