Orthopedic surgeons are trained in the treatment of injuries affecting the muscles, bones and joints. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), surgeons use surgery to correct 50 percent of injuries. Half of the injuries are treated using alternative methods, such as therapy or medicine that encourages the injury to heal. About 20,400 orthopedic surgeons are currently active in the United States.
Description
An orthopedic surgeon medically treats ailments affecting the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves and skin, collectively called the musculoskeletal system. Orthopedic surgeons use surgery, physical therapy or rehabilitative devices, such as casts or splints, to heal injuries. According to the Surgery Channel, common injuries they treat are fractures, strains, muscle or tendon damage, spine disorders, bone tumors and arthritis.
Significance
Orthopedic surgeons commonly treat the elderly, who are a higher risk for reconstructive surgery, and treat injuries caused by sports or exercise. They also help treat injuries caused in the workplace, such as strained or injured muscles. Orthopedic surgeons work closely with other health care providers, such as family doctors or cardiologists, to suggest the best methods for treating musculoskeletal problems. Other doctors or specialists often depend on them to recommend the ways to treat musculoskeletal injuries, ruptures or pain.
Types
Orthopedic surgeons can practice general orthopedic surgery or specialize in a type of orthopedic care. The types of orthopedic surgery include foot and ankle, hand, joint replacement, pediatric care, reconstructive surgery, shoulder and elbow, spine, trauma and fractures. Orthopedic surgeons can also specialize in sports medicine.
Skills
According to AAOS, orthopedic surgeons must have a high mechanical ability, excellent manual dexterity and strong three-dimensional visualization skills. They must also have a natural ability to understand and learn new concepts taught at schools.
Education and Certification
General orthopedic surgeons must complete an undergraduate program and four years of medical school. They must also successfully complete five years of graduate medical education, such as a completing a residency program. To become a certified orthopedic specialist, surgeons must also practice orthopedic surgery for two years and pass a written and oral exam given by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS). Surgeons must complete an additional 120 hours of medical education, must pass a peer review and pass both ABOS exams every seven to 10 years to keep the certification. If the surgeon passes and is considered competent to continue practicing after the peer review, the surgeon keeps the certification for an additional seven to 10 years.
Salary
According to Salary.com, orthopedic surgeons practicing in the United States make between $307,080 and $492,000 a year. The median salary range was $403,084.
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