Here Are The Basics On Orthopedic Surgeries
Orthopedic surgery is an operation performed on the musculoskeletal system. Bones, muscles, and ligaments are prone to damage. Trauma from an accident or sport can lead to ligament tears or broken bones. The wear and tear that happens over years of use can lead to degenerative bones and ligaments, while infections or congenital disorders can be unpleasant for patients. An orthopedic surgeon will attempt to repair, clean up, replace, or remove the affected bone, cartilage, or ligament. This should relieve symptoms, help the patient recover, and improve quality of life. There are different surgical techniques available to surgeons, but recently, there has been a surge in the demand for outpatient orthopedic surgeries.
Inpatient vs outpatient surgery
Traditional orthopedic surgery requires a single incision several inches long to access the affected area. The surgeon will move tissue and sometimes muscle to access the surgical site. After the surgery, the patient must stay overnight at the hospital, known as inpatient surgery. Now, orthopedic surgery can be performed using minimally invasive means. The surgeon will make a small incision of less than an inch. Through this incision, the surgeon inserts an arthroscope, a device with a camera and light attachment. The scope projects onto an external monitor, giving the surgeon a complete view of the injury or surgical site. Additional surgical tools go into 1-2 small incisions to perform the surgery. This technique is an outpatient surgery, as most patients can leave on the same day.
Common types of orthopedic surgeries
Orthopedic surgery can be performed for diagnostic and repair purposes. Sometimes, the true nature of an injury or disease will not show up on an X-ray. The scope through a single incision can provide a more accurate diagnosis. Popular repair procedures include carpal tunnel release, rotator cuff repair, and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Spinal surgeries are another orthopedic procedure that is rising in popularity. Spinal fusions, discectomies, and facet joint removals can be performed in an outpatient setting. Surgeons are constantly discovering new procedures that could be performed using minimally invasive surgery.
Benefits of outpatient orthopedic surgery
Outpatient orthopedic procedures are popular due to the many benefits to patients. Since patients can leave the hospital on the same day, recovery can happen in the comfort of home. These procedures use small incisions, which means less bleeding and postoperative pain. There are also smaller scars compared to the large incisions made in traditional surgery. Outpatient surgery minimizes damage to surrounding tissue and bone, leading to fewer complications and improved outcomes in certain cases. There has also been a rise in ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) that focus solely on these techniques. As a result, outpatient surgery can be more convenient and cost-effective for patients.
Is it for everyone?
Outpatient surgery offers many advantages, but the procedure is not for everyone. There is still a need for traditional surgery, as some factors impact eligibility. The ideal candidate is in good health and is not at risk of developing complications. Outpatient surgery is ideal for elective surgery or moderate injuries that can take time to plan and set up. Emergency situations requiring quick action or tissue already damaged by injury are better served by performing traditional surgery. Doctors will opt for inpatient surgery for patients with complex medical conditions or at risk of developing severe complications. Through initial consultations, the surgeon will determine if outpatient surgery is appropriate.
Risks and complications
Despite the benefits, all surgical procedures carry a degree of risk. Anesthesia-related issues, infections, bleeding, and postoperative pain are common, even with minimally invasive surgery. Sometimes, nearby nerves or muscles can experience damage, leading to a longer recovery. Outpatient orthopedic surgery success is also dependent on patient adherence to postoperative instructions. Follow all doctor advice to avoid delayed wound healing, failed surgery, or other complications. The risks can vary based on the type of surgery, patient age, health, and surgeon experience.
Consider outpatient orthopedic surgery today
Outpatient orthopedic surgery will only continue to grow in popularity. The benefits range from speed, efficiency, and smaller incisions leading to fewer complications. Patients who need elective surgery or a more detailed diagnosis can do so in a convenient space. The small incisions also mean a faster recovery and an opportunity to resume daily activities confidently. While no surgery is without risk, outpatient surgery is still the ideal choice for the right candidate.