Overview

Orthopedic surgery is concerned with musculoskeletal issues such as knee replacement, hip replacement, arthroscopy, meniscal repair, and so on. You can save money and time by having orthopedic surgery abroad, where the expenses are lower and there are no waiting lists.

What is Orthopedic Surgery?

Orthopedics (also known as orthopedic surgery) is a medical specialty that focuses on musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. This intricate system of bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves lets you to move, work, and be active.

Orthopedists are now responsible for the care of patients of all ages, from babies with clubfeet to young sportsmen requiring arthroscopic surgery to elderly adults with arthritis. And anyone, at any age, can break a bone.

Common Areas of the Body Requiring Orthopedic Surgery

Here are the most common body areas where orthopedic surgery may be performed.

• Wrists. The most common wrist procedures are for carpal tunnel release or distal radius fracture.
• Ankles. Ankle fractures are a common sports injury. They are also typical job injuries on locations where workers may fall from great heights or encounter tripping hazards.
• Hips. The most common hip surgeries are femoral neck repair, trochanteric fracture repair, and prosthetic hip joint replacement.
• Spine. Laminectomies, spinal fusions, and intervertebral disc procedures are the most common spine operations.
• Shoulders. Arthroscopic surgery can be used to repair the rotator cuff, decompress the shoulder, or remove the distal clavicle. More information about shoulder injuries can be found here.
• Knees. Repairing the MCL and ACL is one of the most common knee operations. Total knee replacement is also prevalent.

What is an Orthopedic Surgeon?

Orthopedic surgeons are clinicians that specialize in the musculoskeletal system, which includes the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles that are necessary for mobility and daily life.

With more than 200 bones in the human body, it's a popular speciality. Joint dislocation. Hip or back ache. Arthritis (which afflicts 50% of seniors age 65 and older). All of these frequent illnesses, whether acute, chronic, or degenerative, are classified as orthopedic.

Because of the breadth of the discipline, most orthopedic surgeons sub-specialize, focusing on a specific therapeutic area. Hand and wrist specialists solely see hand and wrist cases. Joint surgeons exclusively treat patients with arthritis or similar limiting joint problem in the hip or knee. This allows them to accurately diagnose, treat, and even prevent orthopedic diseases. 

Orthopedic surgeons treat problems of the musculoskeletal system. This involves:

• Diagnosis of your injury or disorder
• Treatment with medication, injections, casting, bracing, surgery, or other options
• Rehabilitation by recommending exercises or physical therapy to restore movement, strength, and function
• Prevention with information and treatment plans to prevent injury or slow the progression of disease

How do you choose an Orthopedic Surgeon?

A critical decision to make before undergoing orthopedic surgery is selecting a licensed and accredited surgeon from a competent professional association.

It is important to check that a surgeon:

• Is a graduate of an accredited medical school
• Has completed a residency in orthopedic surgery
• Has certification with the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS) 
• Has the experience and sufficient professional training to perform the procedure
• Works only in accredited medical facilities
• Adheres to medical education requirements, standards in patient safety, and a strict code of ethics

What does Orthopedic Surgery cover?

Orthopedic surgery is a branch of medicine that deals with acute injuries, congenital and acquired abnormalities, and chronic arthritic or overuse conditions of the bones, joints, and soft tissues around them, such as ligaments, nerves, and muscles.

Most consultants operate in emergency trauma alongside general surgeons, treating bone and soft tissue injuries admitted through their local A&E departments. The vast majority also have a specialty interest in one or more orthopedic conditions, such as the following:

ACL Reconstruction

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is one of four strong ligaments that link the bones of the knee joint. It connects the bottom of the thigh bone (femur) to the top of the shin bone (tibia), hence stabilizing the knee joint. The ACL is the most often damaged knee ligament.

ACL reconstruction is a surgical procedure that replaces the ACL in the knee with a tissue transplant. The torn ligament is removed from the knee before the graft is placed and secured to the femur and tibia with an Arthroscope.

Artificial Disk Replacement (ADR)

Artificial disc replacement is a surgical treatment that involves replacing deteriorated intervertebral discs in the spinal column with artificial ones in the lumbar (lower) or cervical (upper) spine. Chronic, severe low back pain and cervical pain are treated with this technique.

Our physicians are among the world's most experienced Disc Replacement surgeons, having dedicated their lives to the procedure. L3-4 or Cervical disc replacements are extremely common, and multi-level disc replacements are performed with remarkable success. 

Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a surgical treatment used to evaluate and treat joint issues. It lets a surgeon to look into a joint and study it closely to determine what is wrong.

An arthroscope is a small tube with a light source linked to a tiny video camera that sends images to a television monitor. The arthroscope is inserted through a small incision in the skin (arthroscopy is a keyhole operation) and used to illuminate and magnify the joint so the surgeon can see any damage.

Arthroscopy can be performed to investigate disorders including arthritis, symptoms like pain or joint weakness, and cartilage or ligament damage. Small devices can be added to the arthroscope to collect a biopsy sample or to cut, trim, or remove any loose tissue, bone, or cartilage pieces.

Arthroscopy is most commonly used to evaluate the knee joint, although procedures for employing the procedure to examine other joints, such as the shoulder, hip, ankle, wrist, and the tiny joints of the fingers, have been developed.

Carpal Tunnel Surgery

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a moderately common ailment that produces hand and finger discomfort, numbness, and a burning or tingling feeling. The carpal tunnel is a tiny tube that connects the bottom of your wrist to the bottom of your palm. Several tendons that aid in finger movement pass through the carpal tunnel. CTS causes the space inside the tunnel to contract, putting pressure on the nerve. When a nerve is compressed, it causes pain and numbness.

The surgeon will cut piece of the ligament that covers the carpal tunnel in order to decrease the pressure.


There are two ways that carpal tunnel surgery can be carried out:

• Open Surgery - where the surgeon cuts through your wrist to release the nerve.
• Endoscopic Surgery - where the surgeon makes a smaller incision in your palm, and uses a machine called an endoscope to release the nerve.

Golfer’s Elbow / Tennis Elbow

Tennis Elbow is comparable to Golfer's Elbow. The key distinctions between both disorders are the site of pain and the action that causes the damage.

Both disorders, however, are caused by overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons, resulting in inflammation and pain around the elbow joint. Golfer's elbow is characterized by pain on the inner side of the elbow. Golfer's elbow is also known as Medial Epicondylitis. Tennis elbow is characterized by pain and inflammation on the outside of the elbow. Lateral Epicondylitis is the medical term for tennis elbow. The operation entails removing the diseased portion of the tendon in order to alleviate pain sensations.

Hip Replacement / Hip Arthroplasty

A hip replacement is the most effective long-term treatment for joint pain and immobility. The process entails replacing your hip joint with an artificial one. The hip is a "ball and socket" joint that is prone to wear and tear on a regular basis.

This can be caused by a variety of arthritis (most typically osteoarthritis), bone illnesses, bone abnormalities, and hip joint injuries. Unfortunately, in individuals with hip problems, the patient's pain and discomfort frequently worsen over time.

A hip replacement operation to relieve discomfort and increase the patient's movement and mobility is usually the best therapy choice.

Both the natural socket (the Acetabulum) and the rounded ball at the head of the thighbone (the femoral head) are replaced with artificial pieces during the procedure. These components mimic the normal motion of the hip joint.

Hip Resurfacing

Metal-on-metal hip resurfacing includes replacing diseased or damaged surfaces in the hip joint with metal plating, requiring fewer prosthesis and less bone resection. This is a Hip Replacement procedure that replaces the two surfaces of the hip joint.

Hip resurfacing is an option for those who have advanced hip disease. Resurfacing is more likely to last than a traditional replacement joint.

Hip Resurfacing

The HIP Resurfacing procedure is excellent for younger or more active individuals who are considering hip replacement surgery to alleviate hip discomfort or arthritis. Hip resurfacing is very critical for people who want to save their bones.

Hip Revision / Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty

Hip revision surgery, also known as Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty, is a surgical technique in which a previously implanted artificial hip joint, or prosthesis, is removed and replaced with a new prosthesis.

Hip revision surgery has three key goals: to relieve discomfort in the injured hip, to restore the patient's mobility, and to remove a loose or broken prosthesis before irreversible damage is done to the joint.

Other less common reasons for hip revision surgery include fracture of the hip, infection, or prosthesis dislocation. In these circumstances, the prosthesis must be removed to avoid long-term harm to the hip. Bone grafts may also be used in hip revision surgery.

Knee Replacement / Knee Arthroplasty

A knee replacement surgery involves the replacement of an artificial joint for a damaged, worn, or diseased knee.

Knee replacement is a standard treatment for knee discomfort that is most typically caused by arthritis. It is usually required when a health condition or injury to the joint interrupts the normal functioning of the knee, resulting in restricted mobility and pain in the knee even when resting.

The worn ends of the bones in your knee joint are removed and replaced with an artificial version known as a Prosthesis in modern knee replacements.

Depending on the state of the knee, there are two basic forms of surgery: total knee replacement and half (partial) knee replacement. The extent of the damage to your knee joint determines whether you require a total or partial knee replacement. By far the most common procedure is total knee replacement.

Total Knee Replacement

A total knee replacement replaces both sides of your knee joint. If you only have damage to one side of your knee, you may be eligible to have a partial, half-knee, or unicompartmental knee replacement. If your kneecap is simply injured, an operation known as a Patellofemoral Replacement or Patellofemoral Joint Arthroplasty can be performed.

Knee Revision / Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty

Knee revision surgery, also known as revision total knee arthroplasty, is a process in which an artificial knee joint, or prosthesis, that was previously implanted is removed and replaced with a new prosthesis.

Bone grafts may also be used in knee revision surgery. Knee revision surgery has three key goals: to relieve discomfort in the injured hip, to restore the patient's mobility, and to remove a loose or faulty prosthesis before irreversible damage is done to the joint.

Meniscal Surgery

The meniscus is a typical structure in the knee that is injured. The torn section of the Meniscus will be removed or repaired surgically. During surgery, surgeons use an arthroscope to execute this technique. To put the camera into the joint, small incisions are made in the knee.

Surgeons prefer to mend a torn meniscus rather than remove even a small section of it whenever possible. Surgeons sew the meniscus's torn edges back together. It is more suited for younger patients with a recent tear.

Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical treatment that is used to explore, diagnose, and treat shoulder disorders.

There are 2 types of Shoulder Arthroscopy: -


1. Diagnostic Arthroscopy – investigation to find out what is wrong with a shoulder joint. 
2. 
Therapeutic Arthroscopy – correction of an injury or fault within the shoulder joint.

Shoulder Replacement

After hip and knee replacements, the surgical replacement of the shoulder joint is the third most common joint replacement. The socket of the shoulder is shallow to allow for greater range of motion at the expense of bone stability. Shoulder joint replacement can be performed as follows:

• Partial: one particular surface is replaced - the humeral head; also known as Shoulder Hemiarthroplasty.
• Total: both particular surfaces are replaced by prostheses; also known as Shoulder Arthroplasty.
• Reverse: both particular surfaces are replaced but with the 'ball' on the glenoid and the 'cup', or 'socket' on the humerus.

Spinal Surgery

Typically, back surgery is performed to alleviate pressure on one or more of the nerves that pass between the vertebrae. The spine (backbone) is made up of interconnected vertebrae. There are different forms of spinal surgery, and the operation you receive is determined by the source of your pain:

• Laminectomy is the removal or trimming of the majority of a vertebra's bony arch, or lamina, in order to decompress the nerves that feed the legs and to enlarge the entire spinal canal through which the spinal nerves run.
• Discectomy is the surgical removal of the injured or bulging portion of a slipped disc in order to relieve nerve pressure.
• Parts of the lamina and facet joints are removed during foraminotomy to expand the opening in the side of the spine through which spinal nerves flow.
• The lamina is removed during stabilization surgery, and the spine is fused back together. Screws are embedded in the spine.
• Spinal Fusion Surgery entails making an incision in the back, straightening the curve of the spine with metal rods and hooks, and fusing the spine into place with bone transplants.

What to expect during an appointment?

The orthopedist will seek to diagnose the person's ailment during the first appointment. This can include performing a physical exam and taking X-rays. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may do in-office diagnostics or order extra tests in specific cases.

Diagnosis

The process of diagnosis will also involve the orthopedist:

• Asking about the person’s symptoms
• Reviewing the person’s medical record to gather more information about their medical history and overall health
• Carrying out a physical examination
• Reviewing any X-rays that the person underwent before the appointment

The orthopedist may also order additional diagnostic tests. These may include:

• An MRI scan
• A CT scan
• A bone scan
• An ultrasound
• Nerve conduction studies
• Blood tests

In-office procedures

To help diagnose and treat some musculoskeletal disorders, an orthopedist may perform an in-office procedure. X-rays are the "most popular and readily available diagnostic imaging tool," according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

An orthopedist will frequently perform X-rays in-office, allowing them to diagnose specific issues during a patient's visit. They may also provide injections, such as corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation, and perform ultrasound examinations.

Some acute injuries, such as fractures and dislocations, necessitate manipulation of the bone or joint and immobilization with a splint, cast, or brace by an orthopedist.

Treatment options

In addition to in-office treatments, a person’s orthopedist may recommend one or more of the following to treat chronic musculoskeletal conditions:

• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Home exercise programs
• Injections
• Acupuncture
• Mobility aids
• Surgery, when other treatments fail

Traditional vs. Arthroscopic Procedures

Most orthopedic procedures are conducted either traditionally or using an arthroscope. There are times when open surgery is required, but the vast majority of cases fall into one of these two categories. Traditional surgery is more invasive and frequently results in significantly longer recovery times than arthroscopic procedures since incisions are made to regions of the body involved.

While arthroscopic operations are advertised as being less invasive, you should be aware that they are not without risk. Complications such as infection of the surgical site and surgical blunders are still possible.

Orthopedics Treatment Abroad

In this guide, we will help you explore your options for medical tourism for orthopedics.

What Are the Benefits of Orthopedic Surgery Abroad?

People opt for orthopedic surgery abroad for several reasons. These include:

    1. Orthopedic Surgery Abroad Is More Affordable

The price is by far the most important reason why people seek orthopedic treatment abroad. In the United States, for example, total knee replacement surgery can cost up to $20,000 USD. In addition, hip replacement surgery might cost anywhere from $25,000 to $74,000.

In comparison, knee replacement surgery in Mexico costs only $9,000 USD. Even your hip replacement operation costs only 21% (i.e., $16,000) of what it would cost in the United States.

Regardless matter the type of procedure, Mexico is much less expensive than the United States. In the United States, for example, you might expect to pay $20,000 for total knee replacement surgery. It costs less than half as much in Mexico.

It is due to the greater cost of labor in the United States. We all know that when the cost of labor falls, the price of everything falls. It covers everything from the location of the treatment to the cost of food provided by the hospital. If you are uninsured and unable to afford surgery in the United States, flying abroad is a viable option.

    2. No Waiting Times

A long wait period can worsen your medical condition. The average wait time in Canada for a consultation with a specialist is 10.2 weeks, whereas it is roughly 9.4 weeks in the United States. The time between consultation and therapy is even greater.

Fortunately, countries such as India and Mexico provide simple and rapid medical appointments. You can always have the treatment here during your preferred week.

    3. Luxury Medical Care

Many hospitals across the world offer spa-like services to their patients. These hospitals also provide a private nurse, allowing you to receive services quickly. Because these hospitals have lower staff-to-inpatient ratios, it is achievable. Furthermore, the cutting-edge treatment aids in precision in less time.

    4. Holiday Along with the Surgery

Consider visiting the beaches and getting to know the local area before your orthopedic surgery. It is an excellent opportunity to take that long-awaited vacation.

Furthermore, places with the best and most cheap orthopedic facilities provide a variety of enjoyable activities. If you go to Mexico, you should sample some local tacos and other tasty Mexican food.

    5. Incentives by Medical Tourism Companies

Many insurance companies began to promote medical tourism in order to assist patients in saving money. Some systems have been created in which a patient is assigned a case manager. Everything is organized by this case manager:

• Accommodation
• Rides to and from the airport
• Bookings with the trusted healthcare provider
• All-inclusive package

Which Country is the Best for Orthopedic Surgery?

Although orthopedic surgery overseas is less expensive than in the United States, you must choose the right place. You can choose from the following top five orthopedic surgery locations:

    1. Mexico

Traveling to Mexico is not expensive for individuals who live in the United States. As a result, it is a favorite choice among many Americans. Aside from low ticket costs, the cost of living in Mexico is much lower than that of the United States. That is, you will pay a fraction of what you would at home.

The low cost of living reduces the overall expense of your trip. If you want to treat yourself to some amazing shopping in Mexico, you won't have to break the bank. Take a couple weeks off and experience everything Mexico has to offer, including stunning beaches and delicious food.

    2. India

Another country with a low cost of living and highly skilled surgeons is India. Because India is on the other side of the world, it can be more expensive to go there from the United States or Canada. However, it is a good option for Australians seeking surgery in another country.

When you arrive, you will realize how professional the surgeons are. Many of them received their education in the United States. So you may relax knowing that your surgeon is well-trained and that you're in capable hands.

India is also a reasonably priced destination to reside. Because living costs are so low, your lodging, transportation, and hospital expenditures will be far lower than if you had your orthopedic surgery in the United States.

    3. Spain

Spain is one of the most economical countries to visit in Western Europe. You can take some well-deserved time off following your surgery by visiting great beaches, culture, and museums. Many of Spain's surgeons are educated at world-renowned universities such as the University of Barcelona and the University of Valencia.

The majority of hospitals in Spain have English-speaking employees. Because the medical providers speak English fluently, you can prevent misunderstandings.

    4. Turkey

Turkey, known as the "bridge between the west and the east," provides people and visitors with affordable yet modern healthcare.

Despite being one of the more expensive options on this list, Turkey's facilities and surgeons are cutting-edge. Many Turkish doctors have received their education in the United States or Canada. They are fluent in English and will ensure that you enjoy the greatest possible experience.

    5. Costa Rica

Costa Rica, like Mexico, should not be too expensive to visit if you are from the United States or Canada. It guarantees that the cost of your orthopedic surgery is kept as low as possible. Your lodging, transportation, and food will also be far less expensive than in the United States.

Costa Rica can thus be a viable alternative even if you are taking out a loan. Finally, when visiting Costa Rica, take time to admire the country's natural beauty!

How Do I Apply for Orthopedic Surgery Abroad?

    1. Insurance Check

When applying for orthopedic surgery overseas, the first thing you'll need to think about is your finances. Check your insurance policy to see if it covers therapy received abroad.

Ask your insurance company the following questions:

• Is my orthopedic surgery abroad eligible for insurance cover?
• Do you cover the total cost or a percentage?
• What is the maximum benefit?
• Will you pay directly to my healthcare provider?
• Which countries do you cover?

If you don't have insurance, think about making a payment plan. Many medical facilities will gladly let you pay the whole over months or years. The monthly costs are lower since surgery abroad is significantly less expensive than in the United States.

You can also try alternative ways to finance your surgery abroad.

    2. Finding Right Hospital and Surgeons

Following that, you must conduct extensive research. You should spend some time researching the websites of orthopedic surgery hospitals. Examine their surgeons' experience, testimonials from prior patients, and the cost of the treatment.

Make a list of potential options after reviewing several different websites. Find out if they are a suitable fit for you by contacting them via email or video call. This is an excellent opportunity to ask all of your questions.

We can assist you in locating the best surgeon in the nation of your choice. Our short-listed facilities and surgeons have a track record of success with previous patients.

    3. Book Your Medical Trip

It's time to schedule your vacation now that you've checked to see whether your insurance covers your operation and looked for the correct hospital and surgeons.

This is where the fun begins. It's almost like arranging a vacation. Check that your passport is still valid and that you have all of the relevant documentation, such as:

• Airline tickets
• Insurance documentation
• Copies of identification documents
• Drivers license

Our Orthopedic Surgeons Get You Back in Motion?

Orthopedic injuries and illnesses can put you on the sidelines of life. If you experience joint or muscular pain, you may avoid performing daily duties or exercising. Surgery can drastically enhance movement, relieve discomfort, and prevent future consequences from accident or disease for many people.

At Cloud Hospital, you will receive a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your unique issues from one of the nation's top ranked orthopedics programs. Our surgeons are experts in the care of the musculoskeletal system, which includes the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. We are here to serve you throughout your treatment and beyond, with various convenient locations throughout Puget Sound.

Conclusion

Any operation on the musculoskeletal system is considered orthopedic surgery. This system is made up of your bones, muscles, ligaments, joints, and tendons. Orthopedic surgery is classified into three kinds. Traditional techniques are increasingly competing with minimally invasive arthroscopic surgeries that promise less discomfort and faster recovery times.

Several factors may entice you to pursue orthopedic surgery in another country.  there was no variation. However, there was a variation. Many factors are considered by many people while making such a personal decision.