Surgeons

Who is an Orthopedic Surgeon?

An orthopedic surgeon is a physician with extensive training in the proper diagnosis, treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of injuries, disorders and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This system includes bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, nerves and tendons. Orthopedic surgeons have completed approximately 14 years of formal education by the time they start their orthopedic practice including four years of undergraduate study in a college or university, four years of medical school, five years of orthopedic residency, and an additional year of specialty training called a fellowship.

While orthopedic surgeons are familiar with all aspects of the musculoskeletal system, many orthopedists specialize in certain areas, such as the foot and ankle, hand, shoulder and elbow, spine, hip or knee. Orthopedic surgeons may also choose to focus on specific fields like pediatrics, trauma, reconstructive surgery, oncology (bone tumors) or sports medicine.

Board certification and eligibility is very important to an orthopedic surgeon and ensures patients that they are receiving the best care possible. To become board-certified, an orthopedic surgeon must undergo a peer-review process, and then demonstrate his/her expertise in orthopedics by passing both oral and written examinations given by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. Re-certification happens every 10 years and requires many hours studying and attending continuing medical education courses to maintain current orthopaedic knowledge and skills.

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