Orthopedics & Traumatology

What diagnostic options are used in orthopaedics?

To diagnose bone, joint or ligament issues, orthopaedic doctors examine patients, exploring whether there is inflammation or deformity. The most widely used examination method is radiography. It uses x-rays and is excellent at showing bony changes. In addition, the test has a lower radiation exposure than a CT scan.

In arthrography, a doctor uses a thin needle to inject a contrast agent into the joint and takes pictures in different positions. Physicians may perform arthrography using X-rays, CTs, or MRIs. This method is more detailed than conventional radiography.

A bone density test is an examination to measure bone viscosity. Diagnosis is performed using X-rays or a special CT scan. Physicians prescribe this method to diagnose osteoporosis (diseases with a decrease in bone density and strength become crispy and prone to fractures).

MRI of the limbs (magnetic resonance imaging) is a specially developed technique for examining the upper and lower extremities. Thanks to a strong magnetic field and radio waves, the device accurately displays problems that a standard x-ray cannot detect. In addition, the test is designed, and better show soft tissues. Therefore, it is an ideal solution for tendon and cartilage problems.

PedCAT is an innovative 3D imaging of the foot and ankle. It is safer than CT having a lower radiation dose while simultaneously displaying not one plane but a full 3D model of the limb. Doctors diagnose fractures, deformities, tumours, and arthritis using this method.

Electromyography (EMG) studies the conduction of nerve impulses through the muscles. As a rule, this testing accurately identifies injuries and diseases of the muscles and nerves.

Orthopaedics might prescribe ultrasound to see the structures of the joints and their damage. The advantages of this approach are the absence of radiation exposure and the affordable price (significantly lower than MRI or CT scans).

Arthroscopy is an orthopaedic procedure that uses a thin tube with a camera to diagnose and treat joints. First, the doctor examines the entire joint, cartilage, and ligaments using an arthroscope. Surgeons can find and correct the problem during the examination, if necessary.

What is orthopaedic treatment available in modern clinics?

The treatment regimen depends on the disease and the patient's condition. After the diagnosis, the orthopaedist draws up an individual therapy plan, which consists of several options for a speedy recovery and restoration of the functions of the affected area. Orthopaedics and traumatologists divide the treatment of the musculoskeletal system into surgical and non-surgical.

The non-surgical (i.e. conservative) tactic might include therapy with drugs that relieves pain, reduces inflammation, and strengthens joints and bones. Rehabilitation, including massage, physiotherapy, exercise therapy, and acupuncture. Rehabilitation programs use stretching, robotic equipment and strength exercises to improve flexibility and range of motion. Sometimes, it requires giving the limb a rest and not loading it. Therefore doctors resort to immobilization (tires, plaster) to give time for recovery. Regenerative medicine:

• Plasma-rich therapy (PRP) is a modern treatment that helps speed healing. It is a series of plasma injections with platelets obtained from the blood. PRP therapy promotes healing and eliminates the need for certain medications. This method is safe since the source of platelets is the patient's blood.
• Stem cell therapy is an advanced medicine that stimulates the natural healing process. Stem cells can transform into other body cells (cartilage, muscle, bone). This treatment is also safe because the doctor takes the stem cells from the patient's body.

In issues where conservative medicine does not help, patients need to turn to surgery.

• Endoprosthetics (joint replacement) is a surgical procedure performed for severe disorders when other methods are ineffective. In the best orthopaedics clinics, robotic endoprosthetics are available. It is a replacement by repairing a damaged joint through a small incision under anaesthesia. The surgeon can use a robotic arm, which at times increases the accuracy of the operation.
• Internal fixation uses pins, plates, and screws to keep broken bones from moving while they heal.
• Arthroscopy is a minimal surgical procedure when the doctor inserts a particular instrument with a video camera into the joint. Then, the orthopaedist performs manipulations in the middle of the joint with minimal tissue injury.