Orthopaedic surgery is a branch of medicine that deals with the correction of bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. With injuries, degenerative diseases, and age-related conditions on the rise, orthopaedic surgeries have become increasingly common. Whether it’s a sports injury, a fracture, or chronic joint pain, orthopaedic interventions can greatly improve mobility and quality of life.
In this blog, we explore the top 10 most common orthopaedic surgeries, their purpose, recovery process, and why they are performed.
1. Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
One of the most frequently performed orthopaedic surgeries worldwide, total knee replacement is often recommended for patients with severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Over time, the cartilage in the knee wears out, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited movement.
Procedure:
- The surgeon removes damaged bone and cartilage from the knee joint.
- Artificial implants (prostheses) made of metal and plastic are inserted.
Recovery:
- Hospital stay of 2–3 days.
- Physical therapy begins almost immediately.
- Full recovery takes about 3–6 months.
TKR greatly improves pain relief, walking ability, and overall joint function.
2. Total Hip Replacement (THR)
Hip replacement surgery is performed when the hip joint is severely damaged, most commonly by arthritis, trauma, or bone degeneration.
Procedure:
- The damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with a prosthetic ball and socket joint.
Recovery:
- Early movement is encouraged within 24 hours post-surgery.
- Most patients walk with assistance within a few days.
- Recovery can take up to 3 months.
This procedure drastically reduces pain and increases the range of motion in patients with chronic hip conditions.
3. Arthroscopy (Knee or Shoulder)
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery used to diagnose and treat joint problems. It’s commonly performed on the knee, shoulder, hip, or wrist.
Procedure:
- Small incisions are made to insert a tiny camera (arthroscope) and surgical tools.
- Used for treating meniscus tears, ligament repairs, and removing loose cartilage.
Recovery:
- Shorter recovery time than open surgery.
- Patients often return to light activity within 2–4 weeks.
Arthroscopy is valued for its minimal scarring, quick recovery, and effectiveness in treating a wide range of joint issues.
4. Spinal Fusion
Chronic back pain due to degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, or scoliosis may require a spinal fusion.
Procedure:
- Two or more vertebrae are permanently joined (fused) using bone grafts, rods, or screws.
- This reduces movement between the vertebrae to eliminate pain.
Recovery:
- Hospital stay of 2–4 days.
- Limited movement for several weeks.
- Physical therapy is essential for recovery.
Although recovery can be lengthy, spinal fusion can significantly reduce chronic pain and improve spinal stability.
5. ACL Reconstruction
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is crucial for knee stability. Tears often occur due to sports or high-impact activities.
Procedure:
- The torn ACL is replaced with a graft (usually from the patient’s own hamstring or patellar tendon).
- Minimally invasive techniques are used.
Recovery:
- Outpatient surgery.
- Rehabilitation lasts 6–9 months before return to sports.
This is one of the most common orthopaedic surgeries among athletes and active individuals.
6. Shoulder Replacement
For people suffering from severe arthritis or rotator cuff injuries, shoulder replacement surgery becomes necessary.
Procedure:
- The damaged ball and socket of the shoulder joint are replaced with artificial components.
- Reverse shoulder replacements are common when rotator cuff muscles are torn.
Recovery:
- Sling support for 4–6 weeks.
- Full recovery in 4–6 months with physiotherapy.
Shoulder replacement restores strength and function in patients with long-standing pain and weakness.
7. Carpal Tunnel Release
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed in the wrist, leading to numbness, tingling, and hand weakness.
Procedure:
- The ligament pressing on the nerve is cut to relieve pressure.
- Done as open or endoscopic surgery.
Recovery:
- Usually performed on an outpatient basis.
- Full recovery in 4–8 weeks.
This common hand surgery helps restore hand function and relieve discomfort.
8. Fracture Repair (Open Reduction and Internal Fixation – ORIF)
When bones are fractured in a way that cannot heal properly on their own, surgical repair is required.
Procedure:
- Bones are aligned and held together with metal plates, rods, or screws.
- Common in hip, femur, ankle, or wrist fractures.
Recovery:
- Depends on the bone involved and overall health.
- Weight-bearing and activity may be limited for several weeks.
ORIF is a crucial surgery that ensures proper bone healing and alignment.
9. Meniscus Repair Surgery
A meniscus tear, especially in athletes or elderly individuals, can cause severe knee pain and instability.
Procedure:
- Torn meniscus tissue is either trimmed (meniscectomy) or repaired.
- Often done via arthroscopy.
Recovery:
- Weight-bearing is limited for a few weeks.
- Full return to sports in 3–6 months.
Prompt treatment helps prevent long-term joint issues like osteoarthritis.
10. Ankle or Foot Surgery
Foot and ankle surgeries are performed for conditions like bunions, Achilles tendon rupture, flat feet, or ankle fractures.
Common Procedures:
- Bunionectomy
- Ankle ligament repair
- Tendon reconstruction
- Ankle fusion or replacement
Recovery:
- Variable depending on procedure.
- May include cast, walker boot, or crutches.
These surgeries help improve mobility and reduce pain in individuals who struggle with chronic foot and ankle issues.
Conclusion
Orthopaedic surgeries can restore independence, reduce pain, and vastly improve quality of life. If you’re suffering from chronic joint pain, limited movement, or an old injury that’s not healing well, it might be time to consult an orthopaedic surgeon.
Each of the top 10 most common orthopaedic surgeries listed above addresses a unique set of conditions, and advancements in minimally invasive techniques have made recovery quicker and easier than ever before.
