Our bones, joints, and soft tissues such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons make up the musculoskeletal system. Each part comprises a significant role in our day to day functions. Should any of these parts become injured or damage, we lose the capability to perform our regular activities.
Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic surgeons diagnose and treat problems related to bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, or nerves. Orthopedic surgeons may specialize in the upper extremities, including the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. Other orthopedic surgeons may deal with knee and hip care, pediatric care, or other subspecialties. If you are in need of orthopedic care, talk to an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in your injury or condition.
Common Types of Orthopedic Surgery
There is a plethora of orthopedic treatments, including orthopedic surgeries. Here are five of the most common orthopedic surgeries.
1. Bone Fracture Repair
A bone fracture repair is performed to avoid a bone from healing in an unusual position. When a fracture happens, the bone splits into multiple pieces, which can become misaligned. It is essential that a surgeon resets the bone’s fragments to their correct positions as soon as the injury occurs. Otherwise, the bone will heal as is and can leave lifelong issues with mobility and function. Orthopedic surgeons regularly perform surgery on complicated fractures that need bone resetting.
2. Total Joint Replacement
Total joint replacement surgery deals with the removal and replacement of a damaged joint. A metal, plastic, or ceramic prosthetic takes its place. Through this instrument, the patient can regain the same movement and function of their natural joint. Total joint replacement can be performed on any joint in the body, including the shoulder and elbow.
3. Debridement
While total joint replacement deals with the removal of a joint, a debridement involves the removal of damaged or infected tissue. The removal of the tissue helps promote healing. This type of surgery is commonly performed on an open fracture once an infection develops in the area.
4. Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy involves looking into a patient’s joint to diagnose and/or treat an issue. The surgeon makes a small incision to insert an instrument the size of a pencil containing a tiny lens. This instrument can show the surgeon the inside of the body without having to open it up. Arthroscopy procedures are often used to diagnose injuries and conditions as well as perform treatments for a wide range of injuries or disorders, including rotator cuff tears.
5. Carpal Tunnel Release
Your provider may treat carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) without surgery. However, it may be necessary for cases of CTS that have not responded to non-surgical options. The standard surgery for CTS is called open release. Your surgeon will make use of an anesthetic to numb the hand before making a two- to three-inch incision along your palm. This gives access to the transverse carpal ligament, where the surgeon will make an incision to open the tunnel. Endoscopic carpal tunnel release is another form of this surgery.
Orthopedic Surgery in Maryland
Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder was founded in 1987 and continues to provide excellent orthopedic care to patients. We offer operative and non-operative treatments for all types of problems of the upper extremity.
Our main office is located in Lutherville, Maryland, and we have six other locations conveniently located throughout the area.
To make an appointment, you can call us at (410) 296-6232. You may also request an appointment online.
