If you’ve been injured or are suffering from a condition that affects the musculoskeletal system, you may have to undergo surgery. Orthopedic surgeries are often used as a last resort. However, techniques and tools have become more advanced over the years. Surgical procedures now provide patients with higher success rates and accelerated recovery. Many patients are able to take advantage of minimally invasive procedures. Below, we explore some of the most common orthopedic surgeries.

What is Orthopedic Surgery?

Before discussing the most common orthopedic surgeries, it is important to understand what orthopedic surgery is. Orthopedics is a branch of medicine that addresses issues affecting the musculoskeletal system. This system includes the joints, bones, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and muscles. Surgery is often used in this field as a last resort to correct injuries or the effects of other health conditions such as arthritis.

What is the Most Common Orthopedic Operation?

Below are the most common orthopedic operations.

Knee replacement surgery

This is one of the most common orthopedic procedures. It is carried out to restore the normal range of motion in the knee. This surgical procedure involves the replacement of the articular cartilage in the knee. This procedure helps patients return to their normal activity and enjoy a pain-free life.

Reports show that over 700,000 knee replacement surgeries are performed every year. This makes this procedure one of the most common types of orthopedic operations. Surgeons may perform a total knee replacement or a partial knee replacement where plastic or metal parts are used to replace the original knee parts.

Hip replacement surgery

This is another common procedure that can help to restore range of motion and reduce pain in the hips. The procedure involves the replacement of the ball portion within the hip joint. A femoral head cap, an artificial ball bearing, is fitted inside the hip socket. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace the hip socket with a plastic or metal component.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Surgery

This surgical procedure involves the replacement of a torn ACL often with a graft made from a piece of tendon taken from another part of the body such as the patellar tendon or hamstring tendon. This surgical procedure is especially common among athletes and active individuals.

The procedure involves sewing the graft into place. Minimally invasive techniques involve making a small incision to insert the graft. The healing period for this procedure is typically four to six weeks.

Joint fusion Surgery

There are instances when joints are too damaged for replacement or other procedures, such as in the case of severe damage from arthritis. In these instances, surgeons may opt for joint fusion. This procedure is done to allow two or more bones to fuse. The damaged bone or joint is removed and replaced with an artificial material such as ceramic, plastic, or metal. The procedure helps to restore function and motion. It also helps to reduce pain and make the joint more stable. It can be a good option for people suffering from arthritis. It can take several weeks to heal from this procedure.

Consult with a Bellevue Orthopedic Surgeon

If you’ve been injured or are suffering from a condition affecting the musculoskeletal system, don’t suffer in silence. Contact us and schedule an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Chris Boone, one of the leading orthopedic surgeons Bellevue trusts for the best care. We are committed to helping patients achieve long-term results. We offer both surgical and non-surgical treatment options for a wide range of muscle, joint, and bone problems. Contact us now to schedule your consultation.