Orthopaedic traumatology
is a subspecialty of Orthopaedic surgery that deals mainly with the treatment
of difficult fractures, dislocations and other injuries to the extremities
and the pelvis. Orthopaedic traumatologists also have special expertise
to deal with the treatment problems and complications that often occur
after these difficult injuries.
Fractures can be separated into two types, those
that affect the long bones of the body such as the femur ("thigh bone")
or tibia ("shin bone") and those that disrupt the joints (intraarticular
fractures) such as the knee, hip or elbow. While such fractures can still
be treated with casts, splints or bed rest, newer techniques of fracture
treatment often allow early mobilization, joint movement (to prevent stiffness)
and faster return of function. With fractures of the long bones, complications
may include healing of the limb in a short, rotated or angulated position,
failure to heal, infection, or persistent pain. With fractures that extend
into a joint, the main worries are stiffness and subsequent arthritis.
A failure to heal or the development of an infection can also complicate
this type of fracture. The expertise of orthopaedic traumatologists is
particularly suited to treat open ("compound") fractures, intraarticular
fractures and fractures of the pelvis and the foot.
The three trauma specialists in our department
are all experienced in managing these complex injuries as well as problems
or complications that may arise from their care. Their expertise also
includes the care of infected fractures (including those needing vascular,
nerve and plastic surgical procedures) as well as problems that occur
when fractures fail to heal or heal incorrectly in a shortened position.
Other areas of expertise are pediatric fractures and the evaluation of
patients who have pain or limping after having sustained an injury to
one of their extremities.
Dr. Sirkin has a special interest in severe fractures
of the ankle and heel bones and also in the treatment of bone infections
after other fracture surgeries.
Dr. Reilly has a special interest in treatment
of fractures of the hip socket (acetabulum) and pelvis as well as in the
reconstruction of hip and pelvis problems resulting from old fractures
or adult hip dysplasia.
Dr. Adams' clinical interests include complex fractures of the upper and lower extremities,
complications, and post-traumatic reconstruction.
All three of our specialists are members in the
Orthopaedic Trauma Association and are prominent authors and lecturers
on the subject of fracture care and treatment.
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Michael S. Sirkin, MD
Vice Chair/ Professor, Orthopaedics
Mark C. Reilly, MD
Professor
Mark Adams, MD
Associate Professor |
