Orthopaedic surgeon

An orthopaedic surgeon (or orthopaedic specialist) is a specialist who works in a hospital. An orthopaedic surgeon specialises in the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, muscles and tendons.

What does an orthopaedic surgeon do?

A surgeon performs operations. An orthopaedic surgeon performs operations on the musculoskeletal system. Orthopaedic surgeons often have one or more specialisations, such as shoulder or hip surgery. In addition to operating, an orthopaedic surgeon can provide advice or administer an injection.

What complaints are treated by an orthopaedic surgeon?

An orthopaedic surgeon treats all complaints affecting the musculoskeletal system. Examples include a broken bone, hip or knee replacement, and torn muscles or tendons. A child's clubfoot or a herniated disc may also be treated surgically.

How do you see an orthopaedic surgeon?

You can only make an appointment with an orthopaedic surgeon with a referral from your GP or another hospital specialist. For musculoskeletal complaints, a GP may refer you to an orthopaedic surgeon. The symptoms are often assessed by a physiotherapist first. If physiotherapy does not work, you may be referred onwards, either after an initial physiotherapy assessment or after several treatments.

What can you expect from an appointment?

An orthopaedic surgeon asks questions and performs an examination. Further investigations are often requested, such as an MRI scan, X-rays or ultrasound.

On arrival, an assistant will often record your initial details. An assistant may also be present during the consultation, 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 then discussed, leading to advice, further investigation or treatment.

In some cases, an X-ray can be taken immediately. An MRI scan or ultrasound will usually require a new appointment. If treatment involves an injection, it will be performed immediately.

Does an orthopaedic surgeon work with other disciplines?

Yes. An orthopaedic surgeon works with other hospital specialists and with physiotherapists. Musculoskeletal complaints are treated by a physiotherapist and/or orthopaedic surgeon.

Physiotherapy is also often recommended after surgery, helping recovery to be faster and better. With good coordination, a follow-up appointment is not always necessary; the physiotherapist decides this. A follow-up is only needed if recovery does not progress as expected.

An orthopaedic surgeon also works with other specialists. For example, back problems may involve collaboration with a neurologist or neurosurgeon, while children may require collaboration with a paediatrician. An orthopaedic surgeon can refer you to any specialist if the symptoms cannot be explained within their field.