What Is Orthopedic Surgery?
Orthopedic surgery is a specialized branch of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating issues related to the musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. From injury repairs to joint reconstructions, orthopedic procedures are essential in restoring function, relieving pain, and improving the quality of life for individuals suffering from chronic or traumatic conditions.
At Joseph Cohn, MD, FAAOS in Harker Heights, TX, Dr. Joseph Cohn and his team provide a wide range of surgical interventions tailored to the unique needs of each patient. While many orthopedic concerns can be treated conservatively with medication, physical therapy, or bracing, surgery may become necessary when symptoms persist or structural damage is severe.
Orthopedic surgeries range from minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures to full joint replacements. Understanding the different types of these surgeries can help patients feel more prepared and confident when discussing treatment plans with their orthopedic specialist.
Joint Replacement Surgery: Regaining Pain-Free Movement
One of the most well-known orthopedic procedures is joint replacement surgery. This is most commonly performed on the hips and knees, which are prone to degeneration from arthritis or injury. Joint replacement involves removing damaged cartilage and bone from the joint and replacing it with artificial components made of metal, ceramic, or plastic.
Total joint replacement is often recommended for patients who suffer from advanced osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis and have not found relief with conservative treatments. Partial joint replacements may also be considered in cases where damage is localized to one area of the joint.
Hip and knee replacements help patients regain mobility, reduce chronic pain, and return to normal activities. In some cases, shoulder or ankle replacements may also be necessary, although they are less common. Recovery typically includes physical therapy and rehabilitation to ensure full function is restored.
Arthroscopic Surgery: Minimally Invasive Precision
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. It involves the insertion of a small camera, called an arthroscope, into the joint through a tiny incision. This allows orthopedic surgeons to view and treat joint problems without the need for large incisions.
This approach is commonly used for conditions affecting the knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, and wrist. Arthroscopic surgery may be used to repair torn cartilage, ligaments, or tendons; remove loose bone fragments; or treat inflammation in the joint lining.
The benefits of arthroscopy include faster recovery, less post-operative pain, and reduced risk of infection. Because the procedure causes minimal tissue disruption, most patients are able to return to normal activities more quickly compared to traditional open surgeries.
Fracture Repair: Stabilizing Broken Bones
Fracture repair is another major category of orthopedic surgery. When bones break due to trauma, osteoporosis, or overuse, they may need surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the fragments. Techniques vary depending on the type, location, and severity of the fracture.
In many cases, surgeons use internal fixation devices such as screws, rods, plates, or pins to hold the bone in place as it heals. These materials are typically biocompatible and may be left in the body permanently or removed after healing. External fixation, which involves a frame outside the body attached by pins, may be used in complex or open fractures.
Early intervention and proper surgical technique are critical to avoiding long-term complications such as nonunion (failure to heal) or malunion (healing in the wrong position). At Joseph Cohn, MD, FAAOS, Dr. Cohn ensures fracture treatments are carefully planned to restore normal function and alignment.
Spinal Surgery: Relief for Back and Neck Conditions
Spinal surgeries are specialized procedures that address chronic pain, instability, or nerve compression in the neck or back. These issues are often caused by herniated discs, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, or traumatic injury. Because the spine houses the spinal cord, these surgeries require precise technique and specialized training.
Common spinal surgeries include discectomy (removal of a damaged disc), laminectomy (removal of part of a vertebra to relieve pressure on spinal nerves), and spinal fusion (joining of two or more vertebrae to eliminate movement and pain). Minimally invasive spinal surgeries are now available in some cases, allowing for quicker recovery and reduced tissue damage.
Patients who undergo spinal surgery often require a structured rehabilitation program and follow-up imaging to ensure proper healing. When conservative care has failed, spinal surgery can be life-changing in terms of mobility and pain relief.
Hand and Wrist Surgery: Restoring Function to Delicate Areas
The hand and wrist are intricate structures made up of tiny bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments. Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendon injuries, arthritis, and fractures can greatly impact hand function and quality of life. Surgical intervention may be necessary when conservative options are no longer effective.
Carpal tunnel release is one of the most common hand surgeries, performed to relieve pressure on the median nerve. Other procedures may involve tendon repair, joint reconstruction, or removal of bone spurs. Wrist arthroscopy and microsurgery techniques are often used due to the small and complex nature of these structures.
Dr. Cohn and the team at Joseph Cohn, MD, FAAOS offer precision-driven hand surgeries that prioritize functionality and aesthetics. Proper healing is supported through splinting, occupational therapy, and activity modification.
Foot and Ankle Surgery: Addressing Complex Weight-Bearing Structures
The foot and ankle bear the body’s weight and are involved in virtually every movement. When these structures are injured or compromised by deformity, arthritis, or tendon damage, surgical treatment may be needed to restore balance and prevent further complications.
Common surgeries include bunion correction, Achilles tendon repair, ankle arthroscopy, and fusion procedures for arthritic joints. Flatfoot reconstruction and ligament stabilization are also frequent interventions in active individuals or those with congenital deformities.
Foot and ankle surgeries require careful post-operative care, including non-weight-bearing periods and custom orthotics. At Joseph Cohn, MD, FAAOS in Harker Heights, patients receive customized treatment plans and close monitoring to promote strong and stable recovery.
Trauma and Sports Injuries: Getting Back in the Game
Orthopedic trauma and sports injuries often require timely surgical care. Whether due to high-impact accidents, athletic overuse, or falls, these injuries can affect bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. Quick diagnosis and surgical stabilization are essential for optimal outcomes.
Common surgical procedures for sports and trauma injuries include ACL reconstruction, meniscus repair, rotator cuff surgery, and tendon grafting. These interventions aim to preserve joint integrity, restore function, and prevent long-term damage.
With an emphasis on evidence-based treatment protocols, Dr. Joseph Cohn helps athletes and active individuals safely return to their routines. Rehabilitation, bracing, and conditioning are key components of the recovery journey.
Making the Right Surgical Choice
Choosing the right orthopedic surgery depends on many factors including the severity of the condition, patient health, lifestyle goals, and long-term prognosis. A thorough consultation, physical exam, imaging studies, and a discussion of treatment options are all necessary components of the decision-making process.
Patients should feel empowered to ask questions about the surgical approach, risks, alternatives, and expected recovery timelines. At Joseph Cohn, MD, FAAOS, Dr. Cohn emphasizes education and collaboration, ensuring patients feel fully informed before moving forward.
Ultimately, the goal of orthopedic surgery is to restore mobility, eliminate pain, and improve daily living. With modern techniques and a personalized approach, patients in Harker Heights, TX have access to advanced care that supports long-term health and mobility.
Resources
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2021). Common Orthopaedic Procedures. OrthoInfo.
Siddiqui, N. A., & Galvin, J. W. (2020). Advances in Arthroscopic Surgery. Journal of Orthopaedic Research.
Mann, R. A., & Coughlin, M. J. (2018). Surgery of the Foot and Ankle. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery.
