Orthopedics

Orthopedic care involves the diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and prevention of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system - bones and joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor who has extensive knowledge in this field.

What kinds of injuries or disorders are treated at Logansport Memorial?

General Orthopedics including non-operative and operative management:

• Arthroscopic procedures of the shoulder and knee 
• Foot and Ankle injury and prevention management
• Fracture care excluding major spine and pelvic injuries 
• Hand and Upper Extremity maladies including carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger entrapment, deQuerveins disease, fractures and tendon injuries   
• Joint dislocation
• Joint replacement of the hip and knee
• Knee ligament reconstructive - realignment procedures
• Knee osteoarthritis
• Pediatric Fracture/Injuries -  selective treatment of many children’s fractures/injuries
• Sports Injuries
• Worker’s Compensation Injuries excluding spine

What are some common symptoms?

Pain, swelling, redness and decreased mobility in joints are common symptoms, as well as sprains, strains, broken bones and dislocations.

Is surgery always the answer?

No. Most times, treatment does not result in surgery. Surgery is the last choice when other treatment options have not worked.

What is arthroscopic surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery is minimally invasive and has become one of the most common set of orthopedic procedures. With one or more small incisions and the use of tiny instruments with a camera, an orthopedic surgeon may view and repair the tissues inside and about the joint.

What is joint replacement surgery?

Joint replacement surgery replaces the arthritic and damaged joint with new, artificial components. Joints contain cartilage, a rubbery material that cushions the ends of bones and facilitates movement. Over time or through injury, the cartilage wears away causing the bones of the joint to rub together and become stiff and painful. Most people have joint replacement surgery when the pain significantly interferes with their lives.

How long do artificial joints last?

Artificial joints usually have a lifespan of 10 to 20 years. For this reason, major joint replacement is reserved for patients 60 years or older. People who are very active are likely to need another joint replacement surgery later in life.

Can I have my surgery at Logansport Memorial Hospital?

Absolutely. It’s beneficial for people to be close to home for surgery and recovery.

How do I prepare for joint replacement surgery?

Through a program called Joint Training, patients prepare for surgery. This team approach includes three segments.

• On Training Day, patients and their caregivers (key family members or friends) are scheduled to meet with the hospital team who will be involved with their surgery and recovery. The team may include staff from the operating room, nursing, physical-occupational therapy, social services and a dietitian. Patients receive insights about what to expect and advice on how to prepare for and what to do after the surgery for optimal healing.
• At a Pre-Op Appointment, patients receive final instructions and any testing required before surgery.
• Joint Training is the actual hospital stay where further care and instruction enable the patient to recover safely and prepare for going home.