Orthopedic Surgery

Programs that are staffed by physicians who have special expertise in the care of the musculoskeletal system including the bones, joints, muscles, associated nerves, arteries and the overlying skin. Much of the orthopedic surgeon's practice involves the performance of surgical procedures, but many conditions are treated medically or physically through the use of braces, casts, splints or physical therapy. Orthopedic surgeons provide care for a wide variety of problems that may be present at birth, or develop at any time during the person's lifetime including congenital deformities, trauma, infections, tumors, degenerative conditions, and metabolic disturbances that fall into the category of musculoskeletal abnormalities. Orthopedics may also involve the treatment of secondary muscular problems in patients who suffer from various central or peripheral nervous system lesions such as cerebral palsy, paraplegia or stroke.