4 Most Common Orthopedic Surgeries

Orthopedic surgery encompasses diagnosis and treatment of issues involving the body’s musculoskeletal system. Serious conditions can warrant the use of conventional surgical techniques. Minor injuries and repairs are often corrected by utilizing the latest in minimally-invasive technology to limit scarring and reduce recovery time. While orthopedic surgeons perform a variety of procedures, these four tend to be the most common.

Joint replacement
Joint damage or arthritic conditions can necessitate joint replacement surgery. During this type of major surgery, part or all of the affected joint—commonly the knee or hip—is removed and replaced with an artificial joint that operates just like a normal, healthy one.

Arthroscopic Surgery
For this surgical procedure, an arthroscope is used to diagnose and repair damage to knee, hip and shoulder joints. The surgeon inserts a tube-like instrument with a camera through a small incision in the skin and inside the joint to repair minor damage.

Spinal Surgery
Back pain stems from a variety of spinal conditions including stenosis, nerve damage and disc degeneration. If conservative treatments such as medication and physical therapy are ineffective, spinal surgery may be the last resort to relieve pain and improve function. Common types of spinal surgery include fusion, diskectomy and spinal decompression.

ACL Reconstruction
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a major ligament of the knee. If the knee is twisted the wrong way, this ligament can rupture. During this surgery, the surgeon removes the torn ligament and replaces it with an autograft from another tendon or ligament.