Orthopedic surgery can be applied in situations where non-surgical treatments have failed to provide relief from pain or address the underlying condition.

While every patient’s situation is unique, there are some common reasons that orthopedic surgery may be called for:

Severe Trauma or Injury

In cases of severe trauma or injury to the musculoskeletal system, orthopedic surgery may be necessary. These conditions include:

• Fractures that cannot be effectively treated with casting or immobilization alone
• Dislocations
• Severe ligament or tendon tears
• Complex joint injurie

Surgery is performed to realign bones, repair damaged tissues and restore stability and function.

Chronic Pain and Degenerative Conditions

Chronic pain that is caused by degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or spinal disc herniation may require orthopedic surgery after the gauntlet of non-surgical options have been exhausted.

Joint replacement surgeries such as hip or knee replacements can provide significant pain relief and improve mobility for individuals with severe joint damage.

Sports Injuries

Athletes who sustain sports injuries such as torn ligaments (ACL, MCL), meniscus tears or cartilage damage can benefit from orthopedic surgery. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, arthroscopic procedures or reconstructive surgeries may be utilized.

These surgeries intend to restore function, stability and range of motion, allowing athletes to get back in the game.

Congenital or Developmental Abnormalities

Orthopedic surgery may be in order for individuals who suffer from congenital or developmental abnormalities of the musculoskeletal system. These conditions can include scoliosis, hip dysplasia, or limb length discrepancies. Orthopedic surgery can:

• Correct deformities
• Improve function
• Prevent long-term complications

Such surgeries are typically performed on children or adolescents to optimize healthy growth and development.

Infection or Tumor

Orthopedic surgery may be necessary to treat infections or tumors that affect the musculoskeletal system.

Surgeries such as debridement (removal of infected tissues), bone grafting or tumor excision are ways to eliminate infections or remove cancerous or benign tumors. These procedures are essential for:

• Preventing the continuing spread of infection
• Preserving limb function
• Avoiding further potential malignancies

Considerations for Undergoing Surgery

The decision to undergo orthopedic surgery is made on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration such factors such as the patient’s overall health, lifestyle, and goals.

Orthopedic surgeons, Dr. Matthew Dwyer and Dr. Christopher Phelps, at the Orthopedic Performance Institute will work closely with you to assess your condition, explore more conservative treatment options, and determine whether surgery is the most appropriate course of action.

Contact the Orthopedic Performance Institute in San Antonio or Boerne at (210) 545-7171 for more information or to schedule an examination.

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