How Bone Surgeons Transform Lives – What to Expect from Orthopaedic Surgery
If you are experiencing chronic musculoskeletal pain or difficulty moving and are in need of relief, you’ll be pleased to know that there are bone surgeons who possess the skills to heal your pain and restore your mobility and quality of life.
These specialists are skilled in diagnosing and treating of a wide range of conditions, from complex fractures and arthritic joints to sports injuries, using the latest surgical techniques.
The Vital Role of the Bone Surgeon
These surgeons are also known as orthopaedic surgeons. They are highly trained specialists who focus on bones and joints, and the associated soft tissues – muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. Their expertise includes the treatment of:
- Traumatic injuries
- Congenital and acquired disorders
- Chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis
These specialists are crucial to emergency trauma care and elective procedures, often collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive treatment plans.
How Bone Surgeons Approach Assessment
The process starts with a thorough assessment consisting of:
- A clinical examination
- A medical history review
- Advanced imaging such as X-rays, MRI and CT scans
Whatever the findings, their goal is to provide the most effective treatment.
Common Types of Orthopaedic Surgery
Arthroscopy: The invention of the arthroscope was a significant advance in orthopaedic surgery, allowing surgeons to diagnose and treat joint problems using a tiny camera and specialised instruments inserted through small incisions.
Arthroscopy is commonly performed on knees, shoulders, and ankles, enabling precise repair of damaged ligaments, cartilage, and tissues, ensuring less pain and faster recovery than traditional open surgery. Many patients can return home the same day, making arthroscopic surgery a popular choice.
Joint replacement: In cases of severe arthritis or irreparable joint damage, bone surgeons will often recommend joint replacement, also known as arthroplasty. Hip and knee procedures employ prosthetic components to replace damaged bone surfaces, and new techniques offer improved outcomes, with lasting pain relief and restored function.
Fracture Repair and Sports Injury Management
Bone surgeons can stabilise and repair fractures using internal fixation with plates and screws or external frames. To help injured athletes, they can perform ligament reconstructions like ACL repairs, allowing patients to safely resume their activities.
What to Expect: Before, During, and After Surgery
Preparing for Your Consultation
Come prepared with details of:
- Your symptoms
- Previous treatments
- Relevant scans/reports
- Lifestyle, goals, and any special requirements for a tailored treatment plan.
The Surgical Experience
Modern orthopaedic procedures, especially arthroscopy, ensure minimal discomfort and quick recovery.
- The surgery may be performed under local or general anaesthesia.
- Many are day procedures.
- Surgeons will explain the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes before proceeding.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
A structured post-surgical rehabilitation programme is essential. Bone surgeons work with physiotherapists to guide recovery after arthroscopy, joint replacement, or fracture repair, to help patients experience significant improvements in pain levels and functionality.
Why Choose a Specialist Bone Surgeon?
Choosing a bone surgeon with expertise in the latest techniques, such as arthroscopy, ensures the most advanced care. With a focus on minimally invasive approaches and personalised treatment, today’s bone surgeons, such as at the Pretoria Hip, Knee and Shoulder Surgeon, are transforming lives
If you’re ready to take the first step towards pain-free movement, now is the perfect time to book a consultation with us.