Trauma is defined as injury caused by an external source, and can often be life threatening. In the field of orthopedic medicine, trauma or orthopedic trauma is categorized as a severe injury to the elements of the musculoskeletal system (muscles, joints, ligaments, bones, and soft tissue). These trauma injuries are often the result of a sudden accident, like a fall, that requires immediate medical attention. While these injuries are not all life-threatening, they are life altering. Therefore, the help of an orthopedic surgeon is crucial.
Orthopedic trauma physicians are unique because of the knowledge they have about the anatomy of the human body, while other orthopedic specialists may focus on one specific area. Orthopedic trauma physicians have received training in the field of orthopedic surgery with a specialized focus on the treatment of fractured bones and realigning joints, in order to promote the safe recovery and return of functionality to injured body parts. Therefore, these trauma surgeons often treat patients with multiple broken bones and fractures near a joint, like a hip, knee, or shoulder.
Truth is, orthopedic trauma such as fractures can occur to anyone, at any time. In particular, the treatment of a fracture focuses on restoring function as quickly and as fully as possible. While many fractures will heal on their own, some need to be treated surgically for optimal outcomes. Although orthopedic physicians would rather treat injuries with non-surgical methods such as physical therapy, in the case of trauma, surgical treatment often ensures a more complete recovery, and allows for restoring function more quickly. Although fracture care has been a part of orthopedics since its very beginning, specialists in trauma and fracture care are committed to using techniques to ensure that your recovery is the best it can be.
Orthopaedic trauma surgeons are able to follow their patients through all stages of recovery, and will refer their patients to other specialists when needed. By maintaining open communication with all providers, they are able to ensure each patient receives the comprehensive care needed to resume their active lifestyles.
Orthopedic trauma care covers the spectrum of simple fractures to severe life-threatening accidents with multiple broken bones. While many fractures and injuries can be treated by general orthopedic surgeons, some can benefit from fracture specialists. More significant injuries with multiple broken bones, compound fractures and joint fractures, are more difficult to treat, and will benefit the most from receiving specialized care. At Orthopaedic Associates we have the unique expertise and training to treat these traumatic orthopedic injuries. These trauma injuries include:
- Fractures (Joints and bones)
- Fragility fractures from osteoporosis or metabolic bone disease
- Dislocations
- Amputations
- Nonunion and malunion (problems with healing and healing with poor alignment)
Orthopedic trauma and fractures are a very serious and delicate injury to treat, so you need the best board-certified orthopedic surgeons on your side. To learn more about orthopedic surgery, trauma surgery, and about the care we can provide to help you heal, call Orthopaedic Associates at (440) 892-1440 to request an appointment.
