Trauma

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 in dealing 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. In general, orthopaedic trauma surgeons care for fractures of the upper and lower extremities (from the wrist to the shoulder and from the pelvis to the toes).  The expertise of orthopaedic traumatologists is particularly suited to treat open ("compound") fractures, intraarticular fractures, and fractures of the pelvis and the foot.

Dr. Reilly has a special interest in the 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.		Mark Reilly Professor Division Chief
Dr. Adams cares for complex fractures of the upper and lower extremities and the complications of trauma.  This includes post-traumatic reconstructive surgery.		Mark Adams Associate Professor Fellowship Director
Dr. Galloway has a clinical interest in fractures of the upper and lower extremities, non-united and malunited fractures, as well as post-traumatic and degenerative joint arthroplasty.		Joseph Galloway Assistant Professor
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 and/or angulated position. Other areas of expertise are certain pediatric fractures and the evaluation of patients who have pain or limping after having sustained an injury to one of their extremities. All three of our specialists are members of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association.  Drs. Reilly and Adams are prominent authors and lecturers on the subjects of fracture care and treatments.