What Orthopedic Issues Can Require Surgery?

Orthopedic conditions affect the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. Although they can often be treated holistically, they sometimes require surgery. Visiting an experienced az orthopedic surgeon in Phoenix is highly recommended for the best possible outcome. At Angelo Mattalino, MD, in Scottsdale, AZ, we use minimally invasive surgical techniques to reduce recovery times.

A wide range of orthopedic conditions might require surgery when other treatments like Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) machines, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment, and Viscosupplementation prove insufficient. Initially, these methods are often explored due to their non-invasive nature and potential benefits. CPM machines gently move a joint after surgery, aiding recovery and preventing stiffness.

PRP treatment involves using a concentrated form of the patient’s blood to accelerate healing and reduce inflammation. Viscosupplementation involves injecting lubricating fluid into a joint to alleviate pain caused by conditions like osteoarthritis. While these treatments can provide relief for some, surgery becomes necessary when the orthopedic condition severely impacts daily life or when there’s significant structural damage.

Fractures can range from minor cracks to complete breaks, and they often result from accidents, falls, or sports-related incidents. Treatment depends on the severity and location of the fracture. Simple fractures might be treated with immobilization using casts, splints, or slings to allow the bone to heal naturally over time. More complex fractures may require surgery to realign and stabilize the bones using screws, plates, or rods.

Operations are necessary when fractures are displaced, causing misalignment, or if there’s a risk of damage to surrounding tissues. Surgical procedures aim to restore proper alignment and stability, allowing for optimal bone healing. At the clinic, Dr. Mattalino will determine the appropriate treatment approach based on the specific fracture type and the patient’s individual circumstances.

Severe tears in the group of tendons and muscles that stabilize the shoulder joint require surgical intervention when non-surgical treatments like rest, physical therapy, and pain management fail to alleviate symptoms or when the tear significantly impairs daily activities and limits range of motion. Surgery aims to repair the torn tendons and restore shoulder function.

Arthroscopic repair, a minimally invasive approach, is commonly used. During this treatment, a small camera and specialized tools are inserted through small incisions to visualize and repair the tear. Arthroscopic repair generally results in less pain, faster recovery, and improved outcomes compared to open surgery.

A SLAP tear, or Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior tear, affects the upper part of the labrum, a cartilage ring that encircles the socket of the shoulder joint. This type of tear commonly occurs due to repetitive overhead motions or traumatic events. SLAP tears can cause pain, instability, and decreased shoulder function. Arthroscopic repair is often recommended when non-surgical treatments prove ineffective, or when the tear impairs the patient’s quality of life. After an arthroscopic operation, patients experience reduced pain and speedy healing, making it a great choice for addressing SLAP tears. An evaluation by our team is crucial to determine the appropriate treatment plan based on the specific characteristics of the tear and the patient’s needs.

Shoulder impingements occur when the rotator cuff tendons and the bony structures of the shoulder blade impinge or rub against each other during certain arm movements. The symptoms are pain, inflammation, and limited range of motion. Impingements often stem from overuse, poor posture, or biomechanical abnormalities. They can be managed initially with rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications.

If symptoms persist, surgery might be considered. Surgical intervention, often performed arthroscopically, aims to create more space for the tendons by removing any irritants or bone spurs causing the impingement. This approach can restore function and prevent further damage to the rotator cuff, allowing individuals to regain pain-free movement.

The menisci are the rubbery, C-shaped cartilage pads that cushion the knee joint. They can tear due to sudden twisting movements, degeneration, or wear and tear from repetitive activities. Meniscus tears cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and a sensation of locking or catching in the knee. Treatment options depend on the tear’s size, location, and severity. Rest, ice, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications might suffice for minor tears.

Larger or more symptomatic tears might require an operation. During arthroscopic surgery, the torn part of the meniscus is either repaired or trimmed, aiming to relieve pain, restore knee function, and prevent further damage. Surgical treatment is recommended when conservative measures don’t alleviate symptoms or when there’s a risk of the torn meniscus causing complications like joint instability or increased wear on the joint surfaces.

An anterior cruciate ligament tear is a common knee injury that occurs when the ACL, a vital ligament stabilizing the knee joint, is stretched or torn. This injury often happens during sports that involve sudden stops, changes in direction, or jumping. ACL tears lead to pain, swelling, instability, and reduced knee function. In cases where the tear is significant and the knee’s stability is compromised, ACL reconstruction surgery might be necessary.

During this procedure, a graft (typically from the patient’s own tissue or a donor) is used to replace the torn ACL. This aims to restore knee stability, prevent further damage to the knee joint, and enable the individual to return to normal activities, especially sports, with reduced risk of re-injury. ACL reconstruction helps patients regain strength, mobility, and confidence in their knee’s stability, promoting a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.

Cartilage injuries sometimes require surgery. Arthroscopic chondroplasty is a particularly helpful procedure that helps fix rough or damaged cartilage in a joint, like the knee. Instead of making a big incision, doctors use a tiny camera and special tools inserted through small holes to see inside the joint.

They then smooth out the rough spots on the cartilage or remove any damaged parts. This helps the joint move more smoothly, reduces pain, and can improve how well the joint works.

A skilled az orthopedic surgeon in Phoenix might delay or seek alternatives to surgery in order to reduce downtime and help patients achieve an optimal outcome. However, surgery is sometimes necessary to repair broken tissues. Give us a call at Angelo Mattalino, MD, in Scottsdale, AZ, and schedule your initial consultation now.