Orthopaedics is a branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal conditions, which involve the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Various surgical and non-surgical techniques are used in orthopaedics to manage a wide range of musculoskeletal problems.
Nailing and plating are two common surgical techniques used to stabilize and repair bone fractures.
In this procedure, a metal nail or rod is inserted into the medullary canal (inside) of a fractured bone, typically long bones like the femur or tibia. The nail provides stability and support to the fractured bone, allowing it to heal correctly.
ORIF involves the use of metal plates, screws, or pins to hold fractured bone fragments together during the healing process. The plates and screws are placed on the surface of the bone through a surgical incision, providing stability and alignment for proper healing.
Both nailing and plating techniques aim to restore the bone's natural alignment and promote bone healing, allowing patients to regain function and mobility.
Plaster of Paris is a commonly used material to create a cast that immobilizes and supports a fractured or injured bone. A POP cast is applied by wrapping the affected limb in a moistened bandage of plaster of Paris, which hardens over time to create a rigid cast. The cast helps in stabilizing the fracture, reducing pain, and promoting bone healing.
Slabs are temporary splints made of various materials like plaster, fiberglass, or thermoplastic. They are used to provide support and immobilization for acute injuries or before the application of a POP cast. Slabs are more easily adjustable than POP casts and allow room for swelling.
Hip and knee joint replacement surgeries are major orthopaedic procedures performed to treat severe joint degeneration or damage, often due to conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
In THR, the damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial joint (prosthesis), usually made of metal, ceramic, or a combination of materials. The prosthesis recreates the natural movement of the hip joint, relieving pain and improving function.
TKR involves replacing the damaged or worn-out surfaces of the knee joint with artificial components. The prosthetic components mimic the function of the natural knee joint, allowing improved mobility and reduced pain.
Hip and knee joint replacements are highly successful surgeries that significantly improve the quality of life for patients suffering from chronic joint pain and disability. They can restore joint function, reduce pain, and enable patients to return to an active lifestyle.
In summary, orthopaedics encompasses a wide range of treatments for musculoskeletal conditions. Nailing and plating stabilize fractures, POP casts and slabs support and immobilize injured bones, while hip and knee joint replacements offer effective solutions for severe joint degeneration and pain. These interventions, along with various other non-surgical treatments, help patients recover from injuries, alleviate pain, and regain mobility and functionality.
