Orthopaedic trauma

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The Definition of orthopaedic trauma is broad because it encompasses a spectrum of injuries, from simple hairline fractures to life-threatening accidents. While there are many different types of traumatic orthopaedic injuries, the goal of surgeons who specialize in this area is the same to restore the function of the injured body part(s) as quickly and effectively as possible.

Orthopedic surgery is an branch of surgery concerned with conditions involving the musculoskeletal system. Orthopedic surgeons use both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal injuries, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, bone tumours, and congenital limb deformities. Trauma surgery and traumatology is a sub-specialty dealing with the operative management of fractures, major trauma and the multiply-injured patient.

Orthopaedic trauma refers to a serious injury of the skeletal or muscular system caused by an external force, such as a fall or a car accident. While this type of injury is not always life-threatening, it can be life-changing, which is why it’s crucial to seek medical attention right away.That doesn’t necessarily mean a trip to your nearest urgent care center – these injuries may require the unique expertise of an orthopaedic trauma physician.

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Orthopaedic trauma is any severe injury to the bones, joints, and/or soft tissue that is caused by an external source. These injuries are often the result of a sudden incident, such as a car accident or fall, but not always. Trauma can also be caused by overuse – for example, running long distances is a common cause of tibial stress fractures, small hairline cracks in the lower leg.
Causes of Orthopaedic Trauma

Most often, traumatic orthopaedic injuries are caused by:

  • Falling
  • Being involved in a car or motorcycle accident
  • Physical violence
  • Being injured while playing a sport (basketball and football have the highest number of orthopaedic injuries)
  • Natural disasters

Preventing Traumatic Orthopaedic Injuries

  • Accidents happen, but there are some simple things everyone can do to reduce their traumatic injury risk.
  • Always wear a seatbelt when driving.
  • Always wear a helmet when biking, skateboarding, rollerblading, etc.
  • Wear the appropriate safety gear when playing contact sports.
  • Stretch and do a warm-up exercise before working out or playing a sport to prevent muscle injury.
  • Those at a higher risk of injury, either due to a condition that weakens the bones or causes a loss of balance, may need to take additional precautions.
  • Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes with good traction to avoid tripping or slipping.
  • Use night lights to prevent tripping over objects in the dark.
  • Add small ramps to entryways and areas with raised flooring.

Main operations

 The main procedures undertaken by orthopaedic surgeons are:

Joint arthoscopy: A minimally invasive technique which involves inserting probes into the joint to diagnose and repair damaged joint tissue (eg to torn ligaments or floating cartilage).

Fracture repair: A whole series of techniques are used depending on type, severity and location of fracture to ensure that bones are stable, heal correctly and patient retains function. This can include permanent pins and plates, immobilization, use of external pinning and frames.

Arthroplasty: The replacement of whole joints, usually due to osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis. Hip and knee replacements are the most common operations.

Corrective surgery: Procedures aimed at correcting problems of anatomical alignment which either limit function or would cause long-term problems if left.