Why Do You Need Orthopedic Surgery?

Orthopedic surgery is a medical specialty that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. This complex system includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves, which collectively enable movement and provide structural support to the body. 

While many issues can be managed non-surgically, there are situations where surgery becomes necessary to relieve pain and improve quality of life.

Why Orthopedic Surgery?

Orthopedic surgery may be required for various reasons, ranging from traumatic injuries to chronic conditions. Here are some common scenarios where orthopedic surgery is essential:

• Traumatic Injuries: Accidents, falls, sports-related injuries, and trauma can cause fractures, dislocations, ligament tears, and muscle injuries that may require surgical intervention. In severe cases, fractures may need to be stabilized with metal implants, and soft tissue injuries may require surgical repair to restore normal function.
• Degenerative Conditions: As we age, wear and tear on the musculoskeletal system can lead to degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and degenerative disc disease. When conservative treatments like medication, physical therapy, and injections no longer provide adequate relief, orthopedic surgery such as joint replacement or spinal fusion may be recommended to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
• Congenital Disorders: Some individuals are born with musculoskeletal abnormalities or congenital disorders like scoliosis, clubfoot, or hip dysplasia. Orthopedic surgery may be necessary to correct these structural abnormalities and prevent complications affecting mobility and overall health.
• Sports Injuries: Athletes are prone to various injuries, including torn ligaments (such as ACL tears), meniscal tears, and stress fractures. Depending on the location and severity of the injury, surgery may be required to repair the damaged tissue and restore optimal function.

• Tumors: Musculoskeletal tumors, whether benign or malignant, may require surgical removal to prevent further growth, relieve pain, and preserve limb function. Orthopedic oncologists specialize in diagnosing and treating bone and soft tissue tumors, often employing advanced surgical techniques like limb-sparing surgery and reconstruction to achieve the best possible outcomes.

When to See an Orthopedic Doctor?

Knowing when to seek orthopedic care is crucial for early intervention and optimal outcomes. Here are some signs and symptoms that may indicate the need for evaluation by an orthopedic specialist:

• Persistent pain or swelling in the joints, bones, or muscles
• Difficulty performing daily activities due to musculoskeletal issues
• Limited range of motion or stiffness in a joint
• Instability or weakness in a limb
• Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the extremities
• Difficulty bearing weight on a limb or joint
• Visible deformity or abnormality in the musculoskeletal system
• Recent injury or trauma resulting in severe pain or functional impairment

If you experience any of these symptoms, timely intervention can help prevent further damage and can sometimes eliminate the need for surgery.

What are the Various Types of Orthopedic Surgery?

Orthopedic surgery encompasses various procedures, each tailored to address specific musculoskeletal issues. Here are some common orthopedic surgery types:

• Joint Replacement: Joint replacement surgery involves removing damaged or arthritic joint surfaces. These damaged joints are then replaced with artificial implants made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. This procedure is commonly performed for shoulder, knee, and hip joints affected by osteoarthritis or other degenerative conditions.
• Arthroscopy: Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera (arthroscope). This specialized instrument is inserted through tiny incisions to diagnose and treat various joint conditions. It is commonly used to repair torn ligaments, remove loose cartilage/bone fragments, and treat injuries such as rotator cuff and meniscal tears.
• Spinal Surgery: This includes a range of procedures to address conditions affecting the spine, such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, spinal deformities, and fractures. Surgical techniques may include spinal fusion, discectomy, laminectomy, and vertebral disc replacement, depending on the underlying pathology and the patient's symptoms.
• Fracture Repair: Orthopedic surgeons use various techniques to repair fractured bones and restore proper alignment and stability. This may involve internal fixation with plates, screws, or rods, external fixation devices, or minimally invasive procedures like closed reduction and percutaneous pinning.
• Soft Tissue Repair: Soft tissue injuries, including tendon tears, ligament injuries, and muscle ruptures, may require surgical repair to restore normal function and prevent long-term complications. Techniques such as tendon grafting, ligament reconstruction, and muscle reattachment are commonly used to address these injuries.

Takeaway

Orthopedic surgeries are crucial to manage musculoskeletal conditions. These surgeries offer solutions for a wide range of issues affecting the bones, joints, muscles, and soft tissues. Individuals can make informed decisions by understanding when to seek orthopedic care and the types of surgical interventions available.