Orthopedic Surgery

How is orthopaedic surgery different from other types of surgery?

Orthopaedic surgery is a surgical subspecialty focused on treating injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. Your musculoskeletal system comprises bones, joints, muscles, tendons, cartilage, and other soft tissues.

These tissues help you move and maintain your posture. They’re tough and durable but susceptible to injuries and general wear-and-tear. 

Who is a candidate for orthopaedic surgery?

You might be a candidate for orthopaedic surgery if you have a musculoskeletal injury or illness that doesn’t improve with conservative treatment, like ice, rest, and activity changes. That’s particularly true if your symptoms continue, worsen, or affect your mobility. 

How do I prepare for orthopaedic surgery?

Before recommending orthopaedic surgery, Dr. Koutsky completes a preoperative exam. He reviews your medical records, assesses the problem area, and orders diagnostic imaging to examine your bones, joints, and surrounding tissues. 

If Dr. Koutsky identifies an injury or condition that might benefit from orthopaedic surgery, like severe arthritis or an open fracture, he schedules your surgery. Dr. Koutsky also explains the risks, potential complications, and what to expect during recovery.

Let Dr. Koutsky know if you have an implantable medical device, like a pacemaker, or an underlying health problem, like diabetes. They won’t necessarily prevent you from undergoing surgery, but they can increase the risk of complications, so it’s important Dr. Koutsky is aware.

What happens during orthopaedic surgery?

Dr. Koutsky and the DuPage Spine and Orthopaedics team perform orthopaedic surgery at Elmhurst Hospital in Hinsdale. Whenever possible, they use outpatient procedures so patients don’t have to stay overnight at the hospital. 

Dr. Koutsky offers minimally invasive orthopaedic surgery and open orthopaedic surgery. Minimally invasive surgery uses smaller incisions and surgical tools, reducing the risk of pain and scarring. Open surgery is a little more invasive but equally effective. 

Most orthopaedic procedures take 60-90 minutes. Before surgery, Dr. Koutsky administers a local anesthetic, causing you to fall asleep. Once you do, he makes a series of incisions and uses hand-held tools to repair damaged or diseased bone and soft tissue. 

After the surgery, he closes your incisions and moves you to a recovery suite while the anesthetic wears off. 

Call DuPage Spine and Orthopaedics today to schedule an orthopaedic surgery consultation, or book your visit online.