Orthopedic Surgeon

Also referred to as orthopaedics, orthopaedic surgeons are doctors who focus on bone, joint and muscle surgery. Orthopaedic surgeons are specialists in treating disorders in the musculoskeletal system that comprises of bones, ligaments, joints, muscles, tendons and nerves. Corrective surgeries such as joint replacement and removal of torn cartilages are also performed by these surgeons. Orthopaedic surgeons can also specialize in certain areas of surgery such as shoulder surgery, hand surgery etc.

After completion of medical school, they have to complete another five years residency of which one year is concentrated in general surgery and the rest in the field of orthopaedic surgery. They can train for another one year in any kind of sub-specialization if they are interested. Orthopedic surgeons specialize in:

• Joint replacement surgeries.
  
• Treating injuries in athletes and in athletic surgeries.
  
• Hip replacement, hip surgery in adults.
  
• Sports medicine.
  
• Treating dislocations and lacerations.
  
• Set right broken bones.
  
• Perform reconstructive hip and knee surgery in adults.
  
• Spinal surgeries
  
• Arthroscopic surgery.
  
• Treat hand injuries and conduct hand surgeries.
  
• Treat conditions related to arthritis.

Latest techniques employed in orthopaedics

• Arthroscopic tools are used for re-constructing torn ligaments in a non-invasive method where in the patient recovers in a few days after the surgery rather than months as required to recover in open surgeries.
  
• Uni-compartment knee replacement facilitates replacement of one of the knees and is very popular.
  
• Joint replacement surgeries have become easier with the use of newer materials as replacement substitutes.