Orthopedic trauma surgery addresses complex injuries affecting bones, joints, and soft tissues. These injuries often result from accidents or high-impact events and require prompt, specialized care. At MD West One in Omaha, NE, Dr. Michael A. Del Core specializes in trauma surgery, helping patients recover from severe injuries with advanced techniques and compassionate care.
This blog explores the role of orthopedic trauma surgery, the types of injuries treated, and what patients can expect throughout their recovery journey.
What Is Orthopedic Trauma Surgery?
Orthopedic trauma surgery is a specialized field focusing on acute injuries to the musculoskeletal system. Unlike routine fractures or sprains, trauma cases involve severe damage that may include:
- Complex bone fractures
- Joint dislocations
- Torn ligaments and tendons
- Open fractures where bone pierces the skin
- Multiple injuries affecting various body parts (polytrauma)
The primary goal of trauma surgery is to restore functionality, prevent complications, and promote optimal healing.
Common Causes of Orthopedic Trauma
Trauma injuries can result from a variety of incidents, including:
- Car Accidents: High-speed collisions often lead to severe fractures and joint damage.
- Falls: Particularly in older adults, falls can cause hip fractures or wrist injuries.
- Sports Injuries: High-impact sports like football or skiing may result in severe ligament tears or fractures.
- Workplace Accidents: Heavy machinery or construction-related incidents can cause crush injuries or compound fractures.
Regardless of the cause, timely intervention is critical to prevent long-term complications.
Types of Orthopedic Trauma Injuries
Orthopedic trauma encompasses a wide range of injuries. Some of the most common include:
- Simple and Complex Fractures:
- Closed Fractures: Bones break without piercing the skin.
- Open Fractures: The bone breaks through the skin, increasing infection risk.
- Dislocations:
- Occurs when bones in a joint are forced out of alignment, often requiring surgical intervention.
- Soft Tissue Injuries:
- Torn ligaments, tendons, or muscles often accompany fractures or joint dislocations.
- Pelvic and Hip Injuries:
- Common in high-impact accidents, these injuries may require surgical stabilization.
- Multiple Injuries:
- Patients with polytrauma need coordinated care to address multiple fractures or injuries across the body.
The Role of Orthopedic Trauma Surgeons
Orthopedic trauma surgeons like Dr. Michael A. Del Core are trained to manage both straightforward and complex injuries. Their responsibilities include:
- Diagnosing the extent of musculoskeletal damage
- Developing a personalized treatment plan
- Performing surgical interventions, such as fracture fixation or joint reconstruction
- Coordinating with other specialists for comprehensive care in polytrauma cases
Their expertise ensures that even the most severe injuries are treated with precision and care.
Surgical Techniques in Orthopedic Trauma
Trauma surgeons employ various surgical techniques tailored to the patient’s specific injury.
- Fracture Fixation:
- Internal Fixation: Metal rods, screws, or plates stabilize bones during healing.
- External Fixation: A temporary external frame supports complex fractures.
- Joint Reconstruction:
- Restores mobility in joints damaged by trauma, often using prosthetic components.
- Soft Tissue Repair:
- Ligament or tendon repairs address associated injuries to restore joint stability.
- Debridement:
- Removal of damaged tissue or foreign objects in open fractures to reduce infection risk.
These procedures are often combined to ensure comprehensive treatment.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
The recovery process following orthopedic trauma surgery is multifaceted and varies depending on the severity of the injury.
Immediately After Surgery:
- Patients may require hospitalization for pain management and initial healing.
- Immobilization devices like casts or braces are often used to stabilize the injury.
Physical Therapy:
- Rehabilitation typically begins within days or weeks to restore strength and mobility.
- Therapists guide patients through exercises tailored to their specific injuries.
Long-Term Healing:
- Bone fractures generally take 6-12 weeks to heal, while soft tissue recovery may extend longer.
- Ongoing follow-ups with the surgeon ensure proper alignment and healing progress.
Potential Risks and How They Are Addressed
Orthopedic trauma surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries risks such as infection, blood clots, or improper bone alignment. However, these risks are minimized through:
- Advanced surgical techniques
- Rigorous pre- and post-operative care
- Proactive management of complications with antibiotics or anticoagulants
Dr. Michael A. Del Core and the team at MD West One prioritize patient safety at every stage.
Benefits of Orthopedic Trauma Surgery
Orthopedic trauma surgery is not only about repairing injuries but also improving overall quality of life. Key benefits include:
- Restored Mobility: Patients regain the ability to perform everyday tasks.
- Reduced Pain: Proper alignment and healing alleviate chronic discomfort.
- Prevention of Complications: Timely intervention minimizes risks such as joint instability or improper bone healing.
- Improved Functionality: Both bones and soft tissues are repaired to optimize movement.
These outcomes highlight the importance of expert trauma care in achieving a full recovery.
Why Choose MD West One for Orthopedic Trauma Care?
MD West One, led by Dr. Michael A. Del Core, is a trusted name in orthopedic trauma care in Omaha, NE. The team is committed to delivering exceptional outcomes with state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centered approach.
Dr. Del Core’s extensive experience in treating complex trauma cases ensures that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs.
Orthopedic trauma can be life-altering, but with expert surgical care and a dedicated recovery plan, patients can regain their mobility and confidence. Dr. Michael A. Del Core and the team at MD West One are here to guide you through every step of your journey, from surgery to rehabilitation.
If you’ve experienced a traumatic injury, don’t wait to seek care. Contact MD West One in Omaha, NE, today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
Sources
- Patel, N., & Wang, X. (2020). Advances in Trauma Surgery: Techniques and Outcomes. Journal of Orthopedic Research.
- Smith, J. R., & Brown, P. (2019). Rehabilitation Strategies Following Trauma Surgery. Clinical Rehabilitation Science.
- Lee, H. J., & Kim, S. Y. (2018). Management of Complex Fractures: Current Trends. Orthopedic Trauma Journal.
