July 24, 2017

A Closer Look at Five Common Orthopedic Surgeries

When injuries or malformations are severe or conditions of the joints and musculoskeletal system don’t respond to conservative treatment, orthopedic surgery is an option that can often relieve pain and restore normal function.

Here is a closer look at five common orthopedic surgeries.

1. Knee Replacement Surgery

Replacement of the knee joint is a common procedure that may be needed after a serious break or fall. It can also bring relief and restore mobility to the knees of arthritis patients when severe swelling and pain aren’t alleviated by medication or other therapies. The surgery may involve modifications to an existing joint or replacement with a synthetic joint that replicates the actions of a natural knee joint. After their recovery, patients enjoy an improved range of motion, and they may no longer have to rely on walkers and other mobility aids.

2. Foot Surgery for Morton’s Neuroma

Morton’s neuroma is a common benign growth caused by compression and thickening of nerve tissue near the base of the third and fourth toes. The condition causes a sharp, severe burning pain on the bottom of the foot. Numbness may also occur. Symptoms can make walking difficult and force patients to avoid certain types of shoes and activities that increase pain. When rest, cold therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications aren’t sufficient, a surgical procedure to remove the affected nerve tissue or release tight ligaments that encase the nerve can relieve the pain and restore normal function.

3. Spinal Fusion

Spinal fusion is a procedure that permanently joins two or more vertebrae into one solid structure, removing all space between them. During the procedure, extra bone is placed between the vertebrae to fill in the natural space; as the bones heal, no space remains. Spinal fusion may be necessary in cases of severe spinal stenosis, herniated disks, scoliosis, severe arthritis, tumors, infections of the spine, and other conditions. The procedure can dramatically decrease the pain caused by many common spinal conditions and can help to restore normal posture and correct movement disorders in other cases.

4. Carpal Tunnel Release

Carpal tunnel release surgery can provide relief from the painful symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. The condition occurs when repetitive hand motions or inflammatory conditions cause compression and irritation of the median nerve, which extends through the wrist and supplies sensation to the thumb, index finger, and middle finger. The condition results in pain, numbness, and tingling in the thumb and affected fingers. When severe, symptoms may prevent normal use of the hands. During carpal tunnel release surgery, the transverse carpal ligament is cut to release the pressure on the medial nerve. Symptoms resolve gradually as nerve tissue heals.

5. Fracture Repair

Fractures or broken bones are usually the results of serious trauma and injury, especially when bones are weakened by osteoporosis. In many cases, immobilizing the affected limb until it has healed is sufficient. However, some fractures must be stabilized by pins, screws, plates, or other medical devices to ensure that they heal properly. Surgically placing such appliances into large bones can be accomplished while the patient is under general anesthesia. Surgical fracture repair prevents improper healing, which can be a source of chronic pain, deformity, and instability.

Contact Mid Atlantic to Learn More

When surgery becomes necessary, you want a competent, compassionate, and highly skilled surgeon at your side. Our experienced, board-certified physicians at Mid Atlantic Orthopedics have improved mobility, functionality, and quality of life for many New Jersey patients. Contact us today, or visit us online to learn more about our services and credentials.

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