Orthopaedic and trauma operations are performed to treat diseases and injuries of the joints, bones, ligaments, tendons and other structures of the musculoskeletal system when conservative treatment is not effective enough or surgery is necessary because of the nature of the injury. Baltic American Clinic performs foot deformity corrections, arthroscopic knee and shoulder operations, ligament and tendon reconstructions, hip and knee replacements and other orthopaedic operations. An orthopaedic trauma surgeon assesses your condition, chooses the most suitable treatment method and draws up an individual plan for the operation and post-operative care.
Operations for diseases and injuries of the foot, hand, knee, hip, shoulder and other joints.
Minimally invasive joint operations performed through small incisions when this method is suitable.
Hip and knee replacement operations for advanced joint damage.
Individual care and rehabilitation to help restore movement after the operation.
When is orthopaedic or trauma surgery needed?
Surgical treatment is considered when damage to the joints, bones or soft tissues causes significant symptoms, limits movement or cannot be treated properly with conservative methods.
The most common indications for surgery:
- Advanced joint diseases. Because of osteoarthritis or other joint damage, severe pain, limited movement and reduced quality of life persist.
- Meniscus and ligament injuries. Tears, joint instability or mechanical movement problems are found that require surgical treatment.
- Tendon ruptures. The injury impairs the function of the muscles and joints, and an operation may be needed to repair the tendon.
- Foot deformities. A painful bunion (big toe deformity), flat feet or other deformities make walking difficult and do not improve enough with conservative measures.
- Bone fractures and post-traumatic changes. Certain fractures or problems that develop after injuries require surgical treatment.
- Recurrent joint dislocations. The joint remains unstable because of damage to the ligaments or other structures.
Not every orthopaedic disease or injury is treated with surgery. The decision is made after assessing the diagnosis, the severity of the symptoms, test results, the effect of previous treatment and your individual needs.
Which orthopaedic and trauma operations are performed?
Foot and ankle operations
- Hallux valgus – correction of a bunion (big toe deformity).
- Corrective operations for flat feet.
- Correction of hammer toe deformities.
- Ankle arthroscopy.
- Achilles tendon repair.
These operations may be recommended when deformities of the foot or ankle, or damage to the joint or tendons, cause pain and problems with movement.
Knee operations
- Knee arthroscopy.
- Surgical treatment of meniscus injuries.
- Cruciate ligament reconstruction.
- Surgical treatment of kneecap (patellar) instability.
- Revision ligament reconstruction.
- Knee replacement.
The surgical method is chosen taking into account the nature of the injury, the stability of the joint, the condition of the cartilage and the patient’s level of physical activity.
Shoulder operations
- Shoulder arthroscopy.
- Rotator cuff tendon repair.
- Shoulder stabilisation operations.
- Other shoulder tendon reconstructions.
Surgical treatment may be needed because of tendon tears, recurrent shoulder instability or damage to other structures of the joint.
Hip operations
- Hip replacement.
- Arthroscopic hip operations.
Joint replacement is usually considered for advanced joint changes, when pain and limited movement significantly affect everyday life.
Arthroscopy is used to treat certain injuries of the internal structures of the hip joint.
Hand, wrist and elbow operations
- Surgical treatment of wrist and hand injuries.
- Surgical treatment of certain bone fractures, including osteosynthesis of distal radius fractures.
- Elbow arthroscopy.
- Other hand and wrist operations performed according to medical indications.
Other orthopaedic and trauma operations
- Surgical treatment of certain tendon injuries.
- Joint resection and fixation operations.
- Removal of metal implants placed during previous operations.
- Other individually selected orthopaedic operations.
The specific extent and method of the operation are decided during the consultation with the orthopaedic trauma surgeon.
How do the preparation and the orthopaedic operation take place?
The doctor assesses your complaints, movement, previous injuries, illnesses and treatment received. Possible surgical and conservative treatment alternatives are discussed.
According to medical indications, an X-ray or ultrasound is performed, or additional imaging such as magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography is ordered. The tests help determine the nature of the injury and plan the operation.
The surgical method is chosen and the need for implants or other medical supplies is assessed. The doctor explains the aim of the operation, its possible benefits and risks and the expected recovery period.
The necessary laboratory and other tests are carried out and your general health is assessed. If needed, an anaesthetist and other specialists are consulted.
Depending on the diagnosis and the planned treatment, an arthroscopic, open, reconstructive or joint replacement operation is performed. The type of anaesthesia is chosen individually.
After the operation your wellbeing is monitored, pain is controlled and the condition of the operated limb is assessed. The necessary length of inpatient care is decided depending on the extent of the operation and your health.
The doctor gives recommendations on movement, physical exertion, wound care and the use of splints or walking aids. If needed, an individual rehabilitation plan is drawn up.
What tests are needed before orthopaedic surgery?
Helps assess the position of bones and joints, deformities, fractures and degenerative changes.
May be used to assess the condition of tendons, ligaments, muscles and other soft tissues.
Ordered according to indications to detect damage to the menisci, ligaments, cartilage, tendons and other structures.
May be needed to assess complex changes in bones and joints or to plan the operation.
Carried out according to the type of planned operation, the anaesthesia plan and your individual health.
Not every patient needs all of the tests listed. The doctor decides which ones are needed.
How to prepare for orthopaedic surgery
Before the operation you will receive individual preparation recommendations.
It is important to:
- Tell the doctor about all chronic illnesses, allergies, previous operations and medicines you take.
- Discuss the use of medicines that affect blood clotting and other medicines. Do not stop taking them on your own.
- Have the ordered pre-operative tests and attend the necessary consultations.
- Report a fever, an acute infection, skin damage in the area to be operated on or any other new symptoms.
- Follow the anaesthetist’s instructions on eating and drinking before the operation.
- Arrange help at home in advance if your movement will be restricted after the operation.
If a joint replacement or another major operation is planned, the doctor may recommend preparatory exercises and further optimisation of your health.
What to expect after orthopaedic surgery
The length of recovery depends on the operation performed, the structures damaged, your age, general health and rehabilitation.
After minor procedures it is often possible to resume normal activities sooner. Ligament or tendon reconstructions, more complex bone operations and joint replacements require a longer period of healing and rehabilitation.
In the first days there may be pain, swelling, bruising and temporarily limited movement. The doctor explains how to care for the surgical wound and when you can put weight on the operated limb, increase physical exertion and return to daily activities.
After some operations you may need crutches, a splint, special footwear or other orthopaedic aids.
Post-operative rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is an important part of orthopaedic treatment that helps restore joint mobility, muscle strength, coordination and independent movement.
Baltic American Clinic provides rehabilitation services, including individual physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises and other rehabilitation measures used according to indications.
The start, intensity and length of rehabilitation depend on the operation performed. After some procedures movement starts early, while after tendon or ligament reconstructions certain movements and loads are restricted for some time.
Possible complications of orthopaedic surgery
As with other surgical procedures, orthopaedic operations carry a certain risk of complications.
Possible complications:
- Infection of the surgical wound or deeper tissues.
- Bleeding, bruising and wound healing problems.
- Venous thrombosis and other thromboembolic complications.
- Damage to nerves or blood vessels.
- Joint stiffness or persistent limited movement.
- Insufficient relief of symptoms or the need for repeat treatment.
- Implant-related complications, when implants are used.
The doctor assesses and discusses your individual risk before the operation.
When must you see a doctor after the operation?
Seek medical help without delay if:
- The pain gets worse even though you are taking the prescribed medicines.
- The surgical wound becomes very red or swollen, or pus comes out of it.
- You develop a fever and feel generally worse.
- Your leg suddenly becomes very swollen or painful.
- New numbness appears in the limb, or it becomes pale or cold.
Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain or other life-threatening symptoms require emergency help – call 112.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is orthopaedic surgery always necessary if a joint hurts?
No. Many orthopaedic conditions are first treated with conservative methods – medicines, physiotherapy, adjusting physical activity or other measures. Surgery is recommended when there are clear medical indications.
How does arthroscopic surgery differ from open surgery?
Arthroscopy is performed through small incisions using a camera and special instruments. In open surgery the surgeon needs wider access to the area being treated. The most suitable method depends on the nature of the injury.
Does a torn knee meniscus always need an operation?
No. Some meniscus tears can be treated conservatively. Surgery is considered when certain types of damage are found, or significant symptoms or mechanical joint problems persist.
When is hallux valgus (bunion) surgery needed?
Surgical treatment is considered when the big toe deformity causes pain, makes it difficult to wear shoes or walk, and conservative measures do not help enough. A purely cosmetic deformity is not necessarily an indication for surgery.
When is a hip or knee replacement performed?
Usually when the joint damage is advanced, pain and limited movement significantly reduce quality of life and conservative treatment no longer provides enough relief.
Will I need to stay in hospital after orthopaedic surgery?
This depends on the type of operation, the anaesthesia and your general health. Some procedures are performed as day surgery, while inpatient care may be needed after larger operations.
How long does recovery after orthopaedic surgery take?
After minor procedures recovery may take a few weeks, and after more complex reconstructive or joint replacement operations, several months or longer. Your doctor will give you an individual prognosis.
Is rehabilitation always needed after orthopaedic surgery?
The need for and extent of rehabilitation depend on the operation. After many joint and tendon operations, targeted physiotherapy is an important part of restoring function.
Can I return to sport after the operation?
Often yes, but when you can return and how much physical exertion is allowed depend on the operation performed, healing and the muscle and joint function achieved.
Do implants used during the operation always have to be removed?
No. Many implants can remain in the body for a long time. Their removal is considered when there are medical indications, for example because of symptoms or certain complications.
Price of orthopaedic and trauma surgery
The prices of orthopaedic and trauma operations are set according to the current Baltic American Clinic price list.
The final price depends on the type, extent and complexity of the operation, the implants and other medical supplies used and your individual health.
Anaesthesia, inpatient care, post-operative nursing, additional tests and other services, if they are not included in the price of the operation, are charged separately according to the current price list.
Before the operation we discuss with you the individual treatment plan, the planned extent of the operation and the costs.