Many orthopaedic procedures on joints can be performed using an arthroscope, where a fibre optic telescope is used to look inside the joint. Through this type of keyhole surgery fine instruments can be introduced through small incisions (portals) to allow surgery to be performed without the need for large cuts which allows many procedures to be performed as a day stay and allows quicker return to normal function of the joint. Arthroscopic surgery is less painful than open surgery and decreases the risk of healing problems. Arthroscopy allows access to parts of the joints which can not be accessed by other types of surgery.

The division of a crooked or bent bone to improve alignment of the limb. These procedures normally involve some form of internal fixation, such as rods or plates, or external fixation which involves external wires and pins to hold the bone. The type of procedure for fixation will be explained when the surgery is planned.

In many cases tendons will be lengthened to improve the muscle balance around a joint or tendons will be transferred to give overall better joint function. This occurs in children with neuromuscular conditions but also applies to a number of other conditions. Most of these procedures involve some sort of splintage after the surgery followed by a period of rehabilitation, normally supervised by a physiotherapist.

Orthopaedic surgeons have expertise in the treatment of fractured (broken) bones, particularly in the assessment of damage that may have occurred around the fracture. Follow-up of a fracture may involve monitoring the progress of the healing bone, checking the position of the bone in a cast and deciding when other steps in management such as re-manipulation of the fracture or removal of a cast is required. Click here for more information about fractures.

Carpal tunnel syndrome presents as a feeling of numbness or tingling in your hand, especially at night. It is caused by pressure on the median nerve as it runs through a tunnel of bone and ligament in your wrist. Surgery to relieve carpal tunnel syndrome involves making an incision (cut) from the middle of the palm of your hand to your wrist. Tissue that is pressing on the nerve is then cut to release the pressure.

This condition occurs when there is abnormal thickening of the deep tissue between the palm of your hand and your fingers. This thickening occurs very gradually and will start to make your fingers curl toward your palm. If this condition gets to the stage where it significantly limits your hand function, surgery may be recommended. This usually involves removal of the thickened tissue, allowing you to straighten your fingers again.

Problems with the appearance or function of the hand can be the result of injury, birth defects or degenerative conditions. Arthritis Arthritis is a condition in which a joint and the surrounding tissue become swollen and painful. If surgery is necessary, it may involve replacement of the joint with an artificial joint or removal or repair of swollen or damaged tissue. Birth Abnormalities Surgery may sometimes be required for hand abnormalities that are present at birth such as too many or too few fingers, webbed fingers or joints that won’t bend. Injuries Damage to tendons, nerves, joints and bones in the hand may require surgical repair. In some cases, tissue may be transferred from a healthy part of your body to the injured site (grafting).