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Orthopaedic Surgery – Understanding Different Orthopaedic Procedures

Orthopaedic surgery is quite a broad term used to describe several procedures that are generally focused on correcting bone and joint conditions. Orthopaedics as a whole is a field of study that concentrates on the movement of our bodies and the muscles, bones, joints, tendons and ligaments that facilitates movement. As our bodies age these parts of our body, known as the musculoskeletal system, will degenerate slowly. As the muscles and tendons start to become weaker the likelihood of sustaining an injury to the joints increases.

Many people will indeed require orthopaedic surgery due to acute conditions caused by the effects of ageing, but there are also a number of chronic conditions that orthopaedic surgeons can address. 

Let’s have a look at some of the Orthopedic procedures commonly performed:

Tenotomy – Ankle Tendon Lengthening

Individuals with an atypical foot can experience a contracture of the Achilles tendon, which can lead to muscle spasticity and chronic pain in the foot. A contracted muscle could also lead to poor posture and cause even more discomfort in the future. During tenotomy surgery, an orthopaedic surgeon lengthens the Achilles tendon by making small cuts on the tendons to relieve tension on the tendon, when the tendon heals it then retains the new length. This procedure has also been effective at treating clubfoot as it improves the flexibility of the ankle and corrects the positioning of the foot.

Arthroscopy – Joint Diagnostic and Repair

During an arthroscopy, a surgeon uses a very small camera to inspect the inside of a patient’s joint. A small incision is made and the device is manoeuvred to the affected site, giving the surgeon a close-up view of whatever may be causing the patient discomfort. In some cases, the surgeon is able to correct the problem using small instruments within the arthroscope tube. An arthroscopy can be used to diagnose ailments within both the knee and shoulder joints.  

Carpal Tunnel Release

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, is compressed. This can lead to numbness in the hand and the condition tends to worsen over time. A carpal tunnel release procedure can be used to relieve pressure on the median nerve if it becomes compressed by bones or ligaments. An incision is made in the palm of your hand and the carpal tunnel ligament is then cut to reduce the tension on the nerves while also increasing the size of the tunnel.

Various orthopaedic procedures are performed at Centurion Day Hospital’s state of the art facilities daily. Our professional team of staff members are dedicated to providing the best possible care to all of our patients. Book a consultation with one of our qualified surgeons today, or browse our website for more information on any of the procedures performed at our facility.