Orthopedic Trauma in Baton Rouge

Orthopedic trauma occurs when any part of the musculoskeletal system (bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments) is damaged due to injury. Common causes include athletic mishaps, auto accidents, severe falls, or work accidents. Whatever the reason, these sudden and acute injuries require timely, expert evaluation and care from an orthopedic trauma specialist.

In most cases, orthopedic trauma involves the treatment of fractures. These can range from single hairline fractures to multiple broken bones at once. Likewise, their impact can be minor or completely life-altering depending on severity. Types of fractures that may be evaluated and treated by an orthopedic trauma specialist include:

• Stress fractures – Small fractures that occur due to overuse. A typical example would be hairline fractures of the tibia in runners.
  
  
• Open fractures – Breaks where the bone penetrates the skin.
  
  
• Closed fractures – Breaks where the bone does not penetrate the skin.

In addition to these types of broken bones, trauma specialists also frequently work with dislocated joints.

While a general orthopedist can successfully treat many injuries, important distinctions make a trauma orthopedist ideal for more severe injuries. Orthopedic trauma surgeons have undergone additional in-depth training specifically focused on traumatic injuries. This training makes them exceptionally equipped to handle complicated cases with skill and deliver the best possible patient results.

While an orthopedic trauma surgeon is professionally trained to treat even the most severe cases, which may require one or more extensive surgical procedures, most cases do not require surgery at all. Still, patients can benefit from the trained eyes of a trauma specialist throughout the treatment and rehabilitation processes.

If you have an orthopedic injury that requires emergency care, the hospital will have you evaluated by a trauma physician. However, even if your situation is not severe enough to warrant a visit to the ER, you may still need an orthopedic trauma specialist. If you suspect a broken bone or dislocated joint after an accident, a fellowship-trained trauma orthopedist can use their extensive knowledge and specialized training to fully evaluate your condition and provide the treatment that will result in the best healing and least amount of complications possible.

Dr. Arthur Hess Specializes in trauma at the Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge.

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