Algerian orthopedic doctors, like all doctors orthopedists in the world, diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions of the musculoskeletal system. These include bones and joints as well as associated structures that allow movement – ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves.

This article presents useful information on the nature of the work of Algerian orthopedic doctors, common procedures/interventions, sub-specialties and other roles that may be of interest to you.

Nature of the work of Algerian orthopedic doctors

This work has two aspects:

• trauma – injuries to the musculoskeletal system, such as broken, fractured or dislocated bones and soft tissue injuries
• congenital and degenerative disorders of the musculoskeletal system, as well as infections and tumors

Trauma can range from low-energy fractures (often in elderly patients) to multiple injuries such as those caused by a traffic accident. Bone and joint infections may also require emergency admission and treatment.

Algerian orthopedic doctors work with patients of all ages, from babies to the elderly.

Common procedures/interventions of Algerian orthopedic doctors

• joint arthroscopy – a thin telescope with a light (arthroscope) is inserted into the joints through a small incision to study joint problems. This is most often the knee, but other joints can also be studied in this way. The arthroscope can be used to look for signs of arthritis and show any cartilage or ligament damage. Minimally invasive surgery may be done to repair damaged tissue by removing loose cartilage, torn ligaments, or tissue around the joint that has become inflamed
• bone fracture repair – surgery to fix a broken bone using screws, pins, rods or metal plates to hold the bone in place. Many different techniques are used depending on the location, severity, and type of fracture to ensure the bones are stable, heal properly, and maintain function. A bone graft can be used when the bone has been broken
• arthroplasty – replacement of entire joints following damage from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. The most common operations are knee and hip replacements. Newer techniques, such as partial knee resurfacing, are used for patients in the early stages of osteoarthritis
• general repairs of damaged muscles or tendons – these may be acute injuries due to trauma or chronic injuries due to progressive tissue deterioration
• corrective surgery – for example, realignment of the patella (knee). These procedures correct anatomical alignment issues that limit function and could cause long-term problems if left untreated. This surgery is often performed on babies and children for congenital deformities

Orthopedic physicians have the ability to use the latest surgical technologies, including minimally invasive techniques. Another novelty is the computer-assisted navigation during the operation, which makes it possible to map a joint in 3D. This gives the surgeon a higher degree of precision when making incisions.

In Algeria, consultants normally teach undergraduate and postgraduate medical students and supervise surgical trainees.

Sub-specialties of Algerian orthopedic doctors

Most orthopedists develop a sub-specialty (usually towards the end of their specialist training) and this includes:

• a particular area of the body – e.g. foot/ankle, shoulder/elbow, hand, upper limb, pelvis
• reconstruction of a joint – for example the hip or the knee
• orthopedic oncology
• pediatric surgery
• spine surgery
• sports injury surgery
• complex trauma surgery

Role of orthopedic physicians in the management of fragility fractures

Fragility fractures are the most common traumatic condition facing orthopedic surgeons today. Osteoporosis and susceptibility to falls are the main predisposing factors. Despite evidence of the impact of osteoporosis treatment in reducing the incidence of fragility fractures, osteoporosis is often left untreated. Orthopedic surgeons are often the first physicians to assess and treat the patient after a fragility fracture. Their role is therefore not limited to the skilful fixation of fractures, but they have a unique opportunity to ensure that preventive measures are implemented. These include prevention of falls, investigation of possible causes of osteoporosis, attention to diet, exercise, calcium and vitamin D supplementation as well as prescription of antiresorptive and anabolic medications . It is worth emphasizing the need for a specialized multidisciplinary team and therefore effective communication between the different parties is of paramount importance.

Sources

Source 1: healthcareers.nhs.uk [external].

Source 2: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov [external].