When it comes to orthopedic surgery, there are some procedures that are more common than others. The surgeons who perform these operations have had many years of specialized training in order to be a...

When it comes to orthopedic surgery, there are some procedures that are more common than others. The surgeons who perform these operations have had many years of specialized training in order to be able to diagnose and treat ailments of the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system is made up of the muscles, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. These are all components of the human anatomy that allow every type of movement. Some of the typical orthopedic operations include joint replacements, arthroscopic procedures, ACL reconstruction and rotator cuff repairs.

Joint Replacements

Joint replacements are performed when the existing joint is diseased or damaged. These diseased portions end up causing the patient a good deal of pain as well as loss of mobility. Some joints that become especially problematic include knees and hips. While hip and knee replacements are the most common, other regions experience trouble and require replacements, as well. The ankle, wrist and shoulder are other joints that may end up needing prosthetics. When this type of operation is performed, the physician will remove the diseased area and replace it with an artificial joint made from metal or ceramic. The materials that prosthetics are made from are designed to be accepted by the human body and to last at least ten to twenty years.

Arthroscopic Procedures

These operations use a special light and camera called an arthroscope that allows the doctor to have a thorough view of the area. This medical tool has led to better diagnoses and treatment of joints due to the enhanced visibility upon a small monitoring screen. During an arthroscopic operation, the doctor would be able to view, diagnose and treat a patient based on the picture on the viewing monitor.

ACL Reconstruction

An ACL reconstruction is an orthopedic surgery that addresses the anterior cruciate ligament. The anterior cruciate ligament is usually torn and needs to be reattached. This ACL is one of the important tendons for supporting a person's knee. The human knee is a pivotal part of the anatomy for allowing freedom of movement. With a reconstruction, by using a patient's own quadriceps, patella or hamstring, the person can regain mobility and stability. Sometimes, donor grafts are used instead of the patient's own musculature.

Rotator Cuff Issues

The rotator cuff is an area in the shoulder that is used for many movements. It can be torn during athletics, while lifting heavy objects or during other actions that strain the shoulders. A pinched nerve or torn area can become extremely painful and greatly limit a person's ability to get through a normal day. A surgeon would sew the tear back together or move musculature around to ease the pinched region.

There are many different ways a patient's life can be improved through orthopedic surgery. When a person is in constant pain, it greatly hampers his or her ability to move around, sleep at night and perform everyday routines. With a surgeon's intervention in the form of joint replacements, arthroscopic operations, ACL reconstructions and repair of rotator cuff injuries, a patient can have a higher quality of life.

Article Tags: Orthopedic Surgery, Rotator Cuff