Learn How Orthopedic Surgeons and Doctors Are Embracing Innovative Treatment Methods
Healthcare is a story of innovation. MRI and CT scans revolutionized how doctors visualize internal organs and tissues. Vaccines have successfully reduced the impact of numerous infectious diseases. Gene editing has enabled physicians to correct mutations in DNA.
Like other branches of medicine, orthopedics is a story of continuous innovation and major breakthroughs. The specialized training and technology-based treatment methods orthopedic doctors use led to the creation of advanced orthopedics, a term used to differentiate modern treatments from traditional methods.
If you’re dealing with joint pain, musculoskeletal injuries, or mobility issues, these advances mean less time in the hospital and more time doing the things you enjoy. They also help reduce the risk of reinjury and future medical complications.
So, what advanced methods are orthopedic surgeons and doctors using in the modern era?
Let’s explore the advanced techniques that reduce patient risk, improve the quality of care, and support faster recovery times.
5 Advanced Orthopedic Innovations
Historically, many orthopedic procedures required large incisions, long hospital stays, and extended recovery times. In the modern era, orthopedic doctors use advanced tools and procedures that are minimally invasive, highly accurate, and better at preserving healthy tissue.
Surgical improvements, advancements in physical therapy, imaging, and pain management have helped create a more complete and personalized recovery process.
Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery uses a small camera and tiny tools inserted through minor incisions to repair joints, ligaments, and cartilage. This minimally invasive procedure greatly reduces trauma to the surrounding tissue.
Patients typically experience less pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. Orthopedic surgeons often use this technique to treat problems in the knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, wrist, and hand.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery
Robotic technology is another game-changer in orthopedic care. Robotic-assisted surgery allows orthopedic surgeons to perform procedures with the highest level of accuracy and control. The surgeon operates the robot, which helps guide tools and place implants with extreme precision.
This is especially useful in joint replacement surgeries, where exact removal of bone and placement of artificial parts is crucial for proper function. Robotic assistance can also lead to less blood loss, lower infection risk, and better alignment of the joint.
3-D Printed Implants
Another exciting advancement is the use of 3-D printed implants. These custom-made devices are created based on the exact shape and size of your bone structure for a better fit and more natural movement. These implants can also shorten surgical turnaround times, as many advanced orthopedic facilities feature on-site 3-D printing.
This method is typically used in complex surgeries, such as joint replacements or bone reconstructions. 3-D printed implants help reduce recovery time and improve long-term outcomes, especially for patients with unique anatomical features that demand a custom solution.
Orthobiologics
Orthobiologics is a highly innovative and holistic treatment method that uses your body’s own biological materials to repair injuries. One of the most well-known examples is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. In this advanced orthopedic treatment, a blood sample is spun in a machine to concentrate the platelets, which are then injected into the injured area.
PRP therapy accelerates the healing process for injured tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints. It can also reduce inflammation and treat certain skin conditions, such as acne scars and wrinkles. Orthobiologics are often part of a broader treatment plan for patients with chronic pain or sports injuries.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Although most people think of 3-D printed joints and robotic-assisted orthopedic surgery when discussing advanced orthopedics, physical therapy remains a key part of many patient recovery plans.
Advanced rehabilitation techniques use a combination of exercises, manual therapy, and tools like electrical stimulation or ultrasound to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Therapists help drive optimal outcomes by working closely with orthopedic doctors to create recovery plans based on your condition, lifestyle, and goals.
Working With an Advanced Orthopedic Provider
As technology continues to improve, you can expect even more personalized and efficient treatment plans. Artificial intelligence, for example, is a new innovation that will further enhance care and improve results.
If you’re dealing with joint pain, injury, or mobility issues, now is a great time to explore your options. By contacting an advanced orthopedic practice, you gain all the advantages modern treatment methods have to offer, including shortened recovery times and reduced risk of future complications.