Orthopaedic surgeon

An orthopaedic surgeon is a specialist who works in a hospital. An orthopaedic surgeon specialises in the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, muscles and tendons.

What does an orthopaedic surgeon do?

A surgeon performs operations. An orthopaedic surgeon performs operations on the musculoskeletal system. An orthopaedic surgeon often has one or more specialisms, for example specialising in the shoulder or hip. In addition to performing operations, an orthopaedic surgeon can also provide advice or administer an injection.

Which complaints are treated by an orthopaedic surgeon?

An orthopaedic surgeon treats all complaints affecting the musculoskeletal system. A broken bone, hip or knee replacement, and torn muscles and tendons are examples of these. However, a club foot in a child or a hernia can also be operated on by an orthopaedic surgeon.

How do you see an orthopaedic surgeon?

You can only make an appointment with an orthopaedic surgeon with a referral letter from your GP, or with a referral letter from another specialist at the hospital. For musculoskeletal complaints, a GP can refer you to an orthopaedic surgeon. The complaints will often first be assessed by a physiotherapist. If physiotherapy treatment does not work, you may be referred. This can happen after an initial examination by a physiotherapist, or after several treatments.

What can you expect from an appointment?

An orthopaedic surgeon asks questions and carries out an examination. Further tests will often be requested, such as an MRI scan, X-ray or ultrasound scan.

On arrival, an assistant will often record your initial details. An assistant may also be present during the consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon, mainly to record the answers. The consultation is followed by a physical examination. You may need to undress so that the bone or joint can be seen. The results are discussed after this physical examination. This leads to advice, further tests or treatment.

In some cases, an X-ray can be taken immediately. A new appointment will usually be arranged for an MRI scan or ultrasound scan. If the treatment consists of an injection, this will be carried out immediately.

Do orthopaedic surgeons work with other disciplines?

Yes, an orthopaedic surgeon works with other specialists at the hospital, as well as with physiotherapists. Musculoskeletal complaints are treated by a physiotherapist and/or orthopaedic surgeon.

Physiotherapy is also often recommended after an operation. This helps recovery to progress more quickly and effectively. With good coordination, a follow-up appointment is not always necessary. The physiotherapist then decides. A follow-up is only necessary if recovery is not progressing as expected.

An orthopaedic surgeon also works with other specialists. For example, back complaints may involve collaboration with a neurologist or neurosurgeon. Children may also be treated in collaboration with a paediatrician. An orthopaedic surgeon can refer you to any specialist if they cannot explain the complaints within their own field.