Orthopedic surgery

What is orthopedic surgery?

There are many different types of orthopedic surgeries, many of which are covered in this website. In many cases, orthopedic conditions and injuries can be addressed with arthroscopic surgery, a minimally invasive form of orthopedic surgery described elsewhere in this website. General orthopedic surgery, as referred to here, is the traditional surgery that requires a larger incision and a longer healing and rehabilitation period. This approach may be appropriate for specific types of conditions, such as severe injuries and arthritic shoulder conditions.

How is orthopedic surgery performed?

Prior to your surgery, your surgeon and anesthesiologist will work together to determine the best type of anesthesia for your particular surgery. Whichever anesthesia is used, you will be asleep for the entire procedure. Once you are asleep, the surgeon will make an incision near the part of your body being treated and will repair the damage. After the surgery, you will spend a minimum of one hour recovering, where you will be closely monitored by hospital or surgery center medical staff. A dressing (a special bandage) will be placed over the site of the surgery to keep the area clean and absorb any fluids that result from the incision.

Is orthopedic surgery covered by insurance?

Most orthopedic surgeries are covered by private health insurance and Medicare.

How quickly can I get back to my regular routine?

The recovery period from orthopedic surgery will take between several weeks and several months, depending on the type of surgery you undergo. If the procedure was performed on a leg, you will be required to spend several weeks on crutches. Physical therapy is usually required. It can take up to 6 months to fully recover from open orthopedic surgery.

Are there any side effects to orthopedic surgery?

As with all surgeries, the risks associated with orthopedic surgery are rare and can include infection, blood clots, joint stiffness, injuries to blood vessels and nerves.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact West Coast Orthopedics today.

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