Bone and joint injuries frequently require orthopedic injury treatment in Sacramento, CA. Often originating from trauma, falls, or injury, bone and joint damage can sometimes lead to surgery. For example, a broken bone may occasionally puncture the skin and cause intense pain. If you suspect that your bone is fractured, you need to seek medical treatment immediately.
Serious Fractures
In serious cases, orthopedic injury treatment involves the use of screws, pins, or plates, which are placed at the fracture site so the bone can stabilize and heal. Joints, which connect the bones, often are damaged at sites such as the elbow or knee. To reduce your risk of this type of injury, make sure you maintain a healthy weight and exercise your muscles. Doing so will reduce joint wear-and-tear and the likelihood of damage or injury.
Preparing for Surgery
However, if you need orthopedic injury treatment in the form of joint replacement surgery, you will need to undergo a preoperative assessment first. The evaluation is meant to determine if you are a viable candidate for surgery. Today, most hip or knee replacements are performed under spinal anesthesia, which numbs the lower body. Medications are given through an IV also help a patient sleep.
Replacing a Joint
During a joint replacement, the damaged cartilage and underlying bone are both removed and replaced with an artificial joint that is made of ceramics and plastics called polyethylene or hard metal alloys. During the procedure, the surgeon uses specialized instruments to remove the bone and size the implants. Trial implants are usually placed first to ensure the fit, stability, size, and movement of the artificial joint. They are then removed, and the permanent implants are fixed to the bone. X-ray images help check on the alignment and size of the implants.
Where to Find Out More About the Treatment
After the surgery, the wound site is closed and sterile dressings are applied. Patients are sent to recovery for about an hour after the procedure. You can find out more about this type of treatment by referring to websites such as
