Orthopaedic surgery is an operative procedure performed by an orthopaedic surgeon to treat musculoskeletal problems caused by accident, trauma, injury, or chronic conditions, which affect the:
- Bones
- Joints
- Muscles
- Tendons
- Ligaments
Orthopaedic doctors perform three important tasks:
- They diagnose disorders and injuries through physical examination, as well as through tests such as X-rays, MRIs, ultrasounds, or blood tests
- Treat injuries through medication and/or surgery
- Recommend physiotherapy or regular exercise to maximize and restore your strength, movement, and functionality
Customized Orthopaedic, General, and Plastic Surgery in Kelowna
At our Kelowna private hospital, we offer a wide range of orthopedic, general, and plastic surgery treatments. From breast augmentations and liposuction, to knee arthroscopy and foot/ankle surgery, we can create customized treatment plans that suit all your health and cosmetic needs.
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5 Common Types of Orthopaedic Surgery
There are many different types of orthopaedic surgical operations performed by surgeons every day. Some of the most common include:
- Arthroscopy: This is an advanced, minimally invasive technique for diagnosing and repairing damaged joint tissue, performed with the use of probes, thin tubes, and small instruments.
- Bone fracture repair: This refers to surgical procedures that are used to treat broken ankles, legs, hips, arms, collarbones, or any other bones. It involves incisions through which the bones are fixed and aligned, often with the use of screws or splints.
- Damaged tissue repair: This is a surgical procedure where torn ligaments or tendons are reconstructed through grafts taken elsewhere in the body.
- Arthroplasty: A range of techniques for replacing whole joints such as the hip joints or knee joints, commonly used for chronic cases of arthritis. It involves replacing diseased joints with prosthetic rubbery material to restore movement in the joints.
- Corrective surgery: This is a range of procedures that are performed to correct misalignment and deformities of the limbs or spine to improve and optimize movement.
Signs You Need to Visit an Orthopaedic Surgeon
If you are experiencing any type of pain in your ankles, hips, knees, shoulders, or back, you may want to consider seeing an orthopaedic surgeon. Some signs that you need to see such a doctor include:
- Pain in muscles, tendons, or joints that persist for more than a few days
- Joint deformity
- Swelling or bruising around the joint or the location of an injury
- Difficulty using that particular body part to perform day-to-day functions (eg. walking up the stairs or carrying grocery bags)
- Joint pain that becomes more intense during periods of rest
- Limited range of motion, such as an ability to straighten your back
- Signs of infection including inflammation, fever, or redness
Surgery Is The Last Resort
Your doctor will do everything they can to delay the need for surgery as long as possible in favour of less invasive treatments, such as medication and physical therapy. When these treatments no longer provide relief for pain and other symptoms, then they may recommend surgery.
Early Diagnosis is Key
Remember, early treatment prevents an issue from becoming even more severe. During an initial consultation with an orthopaedic doctor, they will help isolate the problem, narrow down the cause of the issue, and explain your treatment options.
Call Us Today
To find out more about our range of orthopaedic, plastic, and general surgery treatments, and how our surgeons can help you enjoy optimal health and well-being, visit us at 401-3320 Richter St, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1W 4V5.
Alternatively, you can contact us at 250-868-9799 or fill in our online contact form.
