Bone Doctor - Joint Pain MD

How to put on gloves for orthopedic surgery 🧤 Why Colored Indicator Gloves Matter in #OrthopedicSurgery . Up to 1 in 5 orthopedic surgeries involve glove perforation, highlighting why surgical teams turn to colored indicator gloves. Specialized double-gloving systems feature a bright-colored under glove beneath a standard outer glove. When the outer glove is compromised, fluid seepage creates an immediate dark spot on the colored layer below, alerting surgeons to potential contamination risks. Research shows that colored indicator gloves increase perforation detection by up to 68% compared to standard double-gloving, an early warning system is especially crucial in orthopedic procedures where sharp bone fragments, wires, and surgical instruments. Key findings from recent studies: - Left-handed gloves experience 84% of perforations #SurgicalSafety - Longer procedures significantly increase perforation risk - Indicator gloves are 5.3x more effective at detecting breaches - Both bone and soft tissue procedures carry similar perforation risks . For surgical teams, this means enhanced protection against contamination and improved patient safety. While glove perforation doesn't automatically mean contamination, early detection allows immediate intervention – protecting both healthcare workers and patients. #doubleglove #surgicalgloves . 👇 SHARE your surgery gloving technique and tips

🦿 Tourniquet Use in #KneeSurgery - During some procedures (ACL reconstruction, knee arthroscopy), your surgeon may apply a specialized pressure cuff (tourniquet) to the upper thigh. This creates a 🩸-less surgical field - think of it as "pressing pause" on blood flow to help surgeons see clearly and work precisely. Research shows: - Leg Tourniquets can reduce total 🩸 loss during #OrthopedicSurgery - Can improve visualization of delicate structures - When used properly, may decrease operation time . ✅ Benefits: - Better surgical field visibility - Reduced intraoperative 🩸 loss - Clearer cement bonding (joint replacements) ⚠️ Considerations: - Time limits for safe use (typically 1-2 hrs) - Need to monitor pressure carefully - Some patients may experience temporary discomfort Modern tourniquets are highly sophisticated devices with precise pressure control and safety features - a far cry from their historical origins! The technology behind modern surgical tourniquets has evolved from simple rubber bands to smart devices that can maintain exact pressures and monitor usage time automatically. They're particularly valuable in minimally invasive procedures where clear visualization through small incisions is crucial. The decision to use a tourniquet is always individualized, considering factors like: - Type of orthopedic procedure - Patient's medical history - Expected surgery duration - Specific surgical requirements . 👇 Experience with leg tourniquet for Knee surgery? SHARE your experience & tips #kneesurgeon #kneearthroscopy

Ganglion Cysts Diagnosis & Treatment - #ganglioncysts are filled with a clear, jelly-like fluid and often connect to nearby joints or tendon sheaths through a small stalk called a pedicle Treatment Options Include: 1️⃣ Observation ("Watchful Waiting"): - up to 50% of ganglion cysts disappear on their own - Recommended for painless cysts that don't limit movement - Regular monitoring to track any changes 2️⃣ Non-Surgical Treatments: - Immobilization with splints or braces - Aspiration (draining the fluid) - Activity modification - Pain management if needed 3️⃣ Surgical Options: - Open excision (traditional surgery) - Arthroscopic removal (minimally invasive) - Usually reserved for persistent or painful cysts . While some people still mention the old "book slam" method, there is a risk of damage to surrounding tissues - leave it to a medical professional. There are other causes of bumps under the skin around joints, making accurate diagnosis the most important first step. Each case is unique, and treatment choices should be discussed with your healthcare provider! #wristbump #biblebump #cystpopping . 👇 Had a ganglion cyst? What treatment helped your wrist bump?

Circulating Nurses - Unsung Heroes of the Operating Room - Circulating (and Perioperative) Nurses are highly skilled registered nurses (RN) and the guardians of patient safety + masterminds of surgical workflow. While they don't perform the surgery, they're the vital force that keeps everything running smoothly before, during, and after each procedure. Like operating room's air traffic controllers: ✔️ They verify patient identity and surgical sites ✔️ Maintain strict sterile conditions ✔️ Coordinate with surgical teams ✔️ Monitor vital signs ✔️ Manage essential equipment and supplies ✔️ Document crucial procedural details ✔️ Serve as the patient's advocate when they're most vulnerable By law, every #operatingroom must have at least one #circulatingnurse present during the entire procedure! They're the only team members who can move freely between sterile and non-sterile areas, making them essential links between the surgical field and the outside world. These healthcare heroes combine clinical expertise with exceptional organizational skills and quick thinking. From managing complex technology to anticipating surgeons' needs, they're constantly two steps ahead. They're also the patient's voice when they can't speak for themselves, ensuring safety protocols are followed and comfort is maintained. The next time you or a loved one needs surgery, remember: while the surgeon's hands may be performing the procedure, it's the circulating nurse who's conducting the entire operating room symphony! #SurgicalTeam #nursing . 👇 SHARE how an Operating Room Nurse helped you succeed in surgery

ACL Tear Reconstruction 🦿 Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone (BPTB) ACL Tear Reconstruction - considered the "gold standard" of #ACLreconstruction, the Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone autograft is a technique that harvests tissue from your own body, specifically the middle 1/3 of the patellar tendon along with small bone pieces from your kneecap and tibia, creating a natural anchor system with your own tissue. The bone pieces provide incredibly strong fixation points, leading to excellent healing where bone meets bone. The BPTB graft offers: - Outstanding initial strength - Reliable bone-to-bone healing - Excellent long-term outcomes #ACLRecovery - Quick biological incorporation #KneeSurgery - Lower re-rupture rates in young athletes . Recent research shows approximately 75-80% of athletes return to their previous level of sport following #BonePatellarTendonBone reconstruction. Studies demonstrate that by 6 mos post-surgery, the graft is strongly incorporated, and by 1 yr, it's nearly as strong as a native ACL. It's important to note that this technique isn't for everyone. Some patients may experience temporary anterior knee pain or discomfort when kneeling. Your surgeon will help determine if BPTB is right for you based on factors like your activity level, age, and specific anatomy. The success of BPTB reconstruction relies heavily on precise surgical technique and dedicated rehabilitation. Modern approaches use minimally invasive methods and advanced fixation techniques to optimize outcomes. Research shows that following your PT protocol and waiting 9-12 mos before returning to pivoting sports significantly reduces re-injury risk! . 👇 SHARE your #ACLtear experience & tips

Expandable Spine Cages in Fusion Procedures for Back Pain Relief - Expandable spine cages represent a significant innovation in spine fusion surgery. Expandable #SpineCage devices start small during insertion and expand once properly positioned, offering surgeons optimal control and precision in restoring proper spine alignment and disc height. Unlike traditional static cages, expandable cages can be inserted through smaller incisions and expanded in multiple directions, reducing nerve retraction + potential tissue damage. Latest designs feature both vertical expansion for height restoration + medial-to-lateral expansion for improved endplate coverage for: • Minimally invasive insertion #SpineSurgery • Customizable expansion to fit patient anatomy • Reduced risk of endplate damage • Improved surgical outcomes . Recent clinical studies show that expandable cages can achieve superior segmental lordosis correction vs. static cages, with some designs offering up to 20° of lordotic correction. However, proper surgical technique and careful expansion are crucial to prevent subsidence. Some newer expandable cages incorporate 3D-printed titanium surfaces designed to enhance bone integration and fusion rates. Always consult with an experienced, qualified spine specialist to determine the best treatment options for your specific condition. #discdegeneration #backpain . 👇 SHARE your spine disc disease experience & insights. Comment "spine" for more information on expandable spine cage use in #SpinalFusion procedures

Skin Sutures, Staples & Zipline Closure: How do surgeons close incisions after surgery? . Traditional external sutures remain a reliable choice, where surgeons carefully stitch the wound using specialized surgical thread. These can be continuous (one long running stitch) or interrupted (individual stitches), each with specific benefits for different situations. Subcutaneous (under-the-skin) #sutures offer an elegant solution by closing deeper tissue layers while leaving minimal external scarring. These dissolve naturally over time as the body heals, eliminating the need for removal. #stitches Surgical staples provide a quick and precise closure option, particularly beneficial for long incisions or in areas where speed is crucial. While they may look intimidating, staples often result in clean, consistent wound closure and can be removed easily during recovery. #woundhealing Newest innovations in wound closure include adhesive zip-tie style devices. These clever systems use adhesive strips on either side of the incision with a zippered mechanism to bring the edges together. They offer several advantages: no puncturing of the skin, easy adjustment of tension, and typically less scarring. . Each #skinclosure method has its place in modern surgery, with the choice depending on factors like: - Location/length of the incision - Type of surgery performed - Tissue characteristics - Required healing time - Patient factors The evolution of surgical closure techniques continues to improve patient outcomes + recovery experiences. . ⬇️ HOW was your incision closed? SHARE your incision healing experience & tips

Wound VAC for better Wound Healing: Does it work? . Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT), commonly known as wound VAC therapy uses controlled negative pressure to revolutionize wound healing. Think of it as a high-tech vacuum for your wound - but much more sophisticated. Here's why wound VACs can make a difference: 🔹 Faster Healing: Clinical studies show wounds heal up to 43% faster with NPWT vs traditional dressings. The controlled suction helps draw wound edges together and promotes healthy tissue growth. 🔹 Better Blood Flow: negative pressure stimulates circulation + stimulates new blood vessels, delivering more oxygen/nutrients to healing tissue #WoundHealing 🔹 Reduced Infection Risk: By removing excess fluid/bacteria, #woundVACs create an optimal healing environment + lower infection rates (up to 65%) #WoundVAC 🔹 Less Frequent Dressing Changes: While traditional dressings need daily changes, wound VACs typically only need maintenance every 2-3 dys, reducing patient discomfort/healthcare costs 🔹 Versatile Application: From diabetic foot ulcers to surgical wounds, NPWT helps with various wound types, including: - Post-surgical incisions - Diabetic ulcers - Pressure injuries - Traumatic wounds - Skin grafts The concept of negative pressure for healing has been around since the 1940s, but modern wound VAC systems weren't developed until the late 1990s. Today, they're used in hospitals worldwide⚕️While wound VACs are incredibly effective, they're just one tool in the wound care arsenal. Always consult healthcare professionals for proper wound assessment and treatment planning. #woundcare #woundvac 👇 SHARE your recovery and/or wound VAC therapy experience below! Know anyone that has benefited from this #WoundCare technique?

Bone Cement - the "superglue" of #OrthopedicSurgery . Bone cement isn't actually cement at all - it's a special type of medical-grade acrylic (PMMA) that starts as two components: a powder and a liquid. When mixed in the OR, it triggers a heated chemical reaction that transforms it from a dough-like substance into a rock-solid foundation. Science Behind It: - Powder contains pre-polymerized PMMA beads, radio-opacifier (for X-ray) and initiator - Liquid contains methyl methacrylate monomer and activator - Mixed together, they create an exothermic reaction reaching 190°F ⏱️ Timing is everything as the #bonecement goes through distinct phases: - Mixing phase: Components are combined - Sticky/waiting phase: Mixture begins to set - Working phase: Perfect time for surgeons to apply - Hardening phase: Final solidification . Today's bone cement can even be loaded with antibiotics for infection prevention. Modern vacuum-mixing techniques help reduce porosity and ensure optimal strength. Fun fact: Sir John Charnley pioneered its use in hip replacements in the 1950s, revolutionizing joint replacement surgery and now used for millions of procedures worldwide #JointReplacement #bonecement . 👇 Bone Cement in your body? SHARE your experience and questions

Finger Arthritis Pain Relief with PIP (Finger) Joint Replacement . The proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint - that crucial middle knuckle in your fingers - can be severely impacted by arthritis, trauma, or degenerative conditions. When conservative treatments fail, PIP #jointarthroplasty offers hope for restoring function and relieving pain. Modern PIP joint replacements have evolved offering: 🔹 Silicone Implants: gold standard w/ >40 yrs of reliable results #HandSurgery 🔹 Surface Replacement: Preserving bone while mimicking natural joint mechanics 🔹 Pyrocarbon Implants: Featuring excellent wear characteristics/biocompatibility . The ideal arthroplasty candidate retains good bone stock and functional tendons, but suffers from: - Debilitating joint pain - Limited range of motion - Post-traumatic #arthritis - Osteoarthritis - Rheumatoid arthritis Success rates are impressive, with most patients experiencing: ✅ Significant pain reduction ✅ Improved mobility ✅ Better hand function Patient selection is crucial! Factors like age, activity level, and specific joint involvement help determine the best implant choice. While not perfect, modern PIP joint arthroplasty continues to advance, offering hope to those struggling with finger joint problems. #fingerpain #jointreplacement . 👇 SHARE your hand arthritis experience & tips

🤖 Breaking Barriers: Wearable Robots Are Advancing Mobility Assistance . Scientists and engineers continue to make remarkable progress in creating wearable robotic assistive devices that help people walk and move more freely. These innovative exoskeletons are no longer just sci-fi – they're becoming practical solutions for everyday mobility challenges. Recent breakthroughs include Harvard's soft #robotic garment that eliminated freezing episodes in Parkinson's patients, and Stanford's adaptive exoskeleton that reduced walking energy by 17% - equivalent to removing a 20-pound backpack! Latest generation of wearable robots features: • Lightweight, portable designs #MobilityAid • Intelligent adaptation to individual users • Soft, comfortable materials #AssistiveTechnology • Quick setup and personalization • Enhanced walking speed and stability . Perhaps one of the most impressive is the WalkON Suit F1, which can independently approach a wheelchair user, wrap around their body, and help them stand and walk. This front-loading design eliminates the need for additional assistance, promoting independence. These technologies aren't just for medical rehabilitation – they're helping older adults maintain mobility, supporting workers in physically demanding jobs, and offering new hope to people with movement challenges. Research shows these devices can increase walking speed by up to 9% while reducing physical effort. The future looks promising as researchers continue to improve these devices, making them more accessible, affordable, and user-friendly. #WearableRobotics #mobilityassistance #paralysis . 👇 What are your thoughts on these advances? Would you consider using a wearable robot to enhance your mobility or assist a loved one? #MedTech

Scoliosis Surgery to correct curved spine ↩️ Scoliosis affects millions of people worldwide - characterized by an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, #scoliosis can impact individuals of all ages, but it's most commonly diagnosed during adolescence. It comes in various forms w/ adolescent idiopathic scoliosis being the most common. While the exact cause remains unknown, factors like genetics, neuromuscular conditions, and birth defects can play a role. Early detection + proper management can make a world of difference . Signs: - Uneven shoulders or waistline - One hip appearing higher than other - Visible curve in spine when bending forward If you notice any of these signs, don't panic! Many cases of scoliosis are mild and may not require intensive treatment. It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper eval (clinical exam +/- X-rays can assess curve severity). . Treatment options vary depending on the individual + degree of curvature. For mild cases, observation + regular check-ups might be sufficient. Moderate cases often benefit from bracing (helping prevent worsening during growth spurts). In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended to correct the curve and prevent potential complications . Scoliosis does NOT mean you can't lead an active, fulfilling life - Many w/ scoliosis participate in sports, dance, and other physical activities. In fact, exercises that focus on core strength/flexibility can be beneficial. It's not just a physical condition – it can also have emotional and social impacts, esp for young people. Building a strong support system and connecting with others who have #scoliosis can be incredibly helpful. #scoliosissurgery . ⬇️ SHARE your scoliosis experience & insights. What questions do you have about treatment options?

Orthopedic Bone Screws: Cortical & Cannulated 🪛 The evolution of orthopedic screws has revolutionized bone fracture treatment. Cortical screws are the precision instruments of orthopedic surgery, specifically designed for the dense outer layer of bone (cortex). Using a unique thread pattern that maximizes contact with cortical bone, these screws provide exceptional stability for fracture fixation. The magic lies in their design - with closer thread spacing and a larger core diameter, they're perfect for strong, dense bone tissue #orthopedicsurgery . Cannulated screws, meanwhile, are the surgical equivalent of a GPS system! 🎯 These hollow-centered screws slide over a pre-placed guidewire, ensuring pinpoint accuracy during placement. This innovative design dramatically reduces surgical errors and improves patient outcomes. They're particularly valuable in challenging procedures like hip fracture repairs and spinal fusion surgeries. . ✅ Cortical Screws: - Optimal for dense bone fixation - Enhanced thread design for maximum stability - Reduced risk of loosening #bonescrews - Perfect for long bone fractures - Minimized tissue damage during insertion . ✅ Cannulated Screws: - Precise placement guidance - Reduced operative time - Lower radiation exposure - Improved surgical accuracy - Excellent for complex fractures Studies show that proper screw selection and placement can significantly impact healing times and patient recovery. Whether it's a simple fracture or complex spinal fusion, these innovative tools continue to advance orthopedic care. . 👇 How many bone screws do you have? Are they holding tight?

Elbow Replacement Surgery for worn-out elbows 🦾 Total Elbow arthroplasty (TEA) has evolved dramatically since its inception in the '70s. Originally developed to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis, this innovative surgical procedure has expanded to help patients with various conditions including: - Severe #rheumatoidarthritis - Unrepairable fractures #ElbowSurgery - Advanced osteoarthritis - Significant post-traumatic arthritis - Patients w/ failed previous elbow surgeries . #ElbowReplacement involves replacing damaged joint surfaces w/ prosthetic components, either linked or unlinked. Modern implants are designed to replicate natural elbow movement while providing stability + pain relief. Success rates are impressive: - 90% survival rate at 5 yrs - 85% survival rate at 10 yrs - 83% survival rate at 15 yrs . While complications can occur, technological advances + improved surgical techniques have made elbow replacement safer and more reliable than ever. The most successful outcomes are seen in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, while trauma-related cases may have more variable results. Note: Age is not necessarily a limiting factor - recent studies show that patients over 80 can achieve excellent results when properly selected. #elbowpain #elbowarthritis . 👇 Dealing with Elbow arthritis and pain? SHARE your experience & insights

🦶 Total Ankle Replacement For some living with chronic ankle pain, Total #AnkleReplacement (TAR) can be a solution - offering treatment of severe ankle arthritis, and allowing patients a chance to regain mobility + live pain-free. During the procedure, damaged ankle joints are replaced with state-of-the-art prosthetic components, typically including metal + plastic parts that work together to replicate natural ankle movement. Key benefits include: - Maintains ankle mobility - Reduces pain significantly - Improves walking ability - Protects surrounding joints . Potential Ankle Joint Replacement candidates are: - Patients w/ end-stage #anklearthritis - Those who've exhausted conservative treatments - Individuals with good bone quality - People without significant deformity Modern Ankle Replacement systems boast impressive +90% survival rates at 5 yrs, w/ many patients returning to active lifestyles. While not everyone is a perfect candidate, technological advances continue to expand eligibility criteria. Always consult a fellowship-trained foot and #anklesurgeon to explore your options. . 👇 Dealing with Ankle Arthritis? SHARE your experience and tips #TotalAnkleReplacement

Inside the OR 👀 Total Hip Replacement . Total #HipReplacement involves precision bone preparation. Using a specialized bone saw, the surgeon carefully removes the damaged femoral head and neck - removing the worn-out 'ball' of your ball-and-socket joint and creating a clean canvas for your new hip implant. Your hip socket (acetabulum) is then prepped with high-tech tool called an acetabular reamer (a carefully engineered hemisphere). Your surgeon uses the reamer to remove damage bone surface and shape your new hip socket, creating the perfect fit for your new artificial cup - like sanding a surface before applying new paint, but with millimeter precision. Then it's time to prepare your femur (upper thigh bone) for the new hip stem. Your surgeon carefully creates a channel in the thigh bone using specialized tools called broaches. Femoral broaches gradually increase in size until achieving that perfect press-fit for your new stem - combining surgical precision + engineering excellence. #OrthopedicSurgery #totalhipreplacement #bonesaw . 👇 SHARE your questions about what goes on in the operating room during #JointReplacement surgery

Knee Crackle and Pops 💥 Let’s talk joint lubrication - Synovial fluid is nature's own joint lubricant that keeps you moving. #SynovialFluid acts like your body's premium motor oil, but it's so much more sophisticated. Here's why it's crucial for healthy joints: 🔹 Shock Absorption: Every time you walk, run, or jump, synovial fluid acts as a natural cushion, protecting your joints from impact 🔹 Frictionless Movement: Contains special molecules called hyaluronan that create an ultra-smooth surface between your joints, allowing them to glide effortlessly 🔹 Joint Nutrition: Delivers essential nutrients to cartilage and removes waste products, keeping your joints healthy and well-nourished 🔹 Infection Defense: Contains specialized immune cells that help protect your joints from harmful bacteria and inflammation Healthy synovial fluid is colorless and egg-white like in consistency and so efficient that it can reduce friction in your joints better than any man-made lubricant. . ⚠️ When synovial fluid becomes compromised (injury, arthritis, aging), it can lead to: - Joint stiffness/reduced mobility - Increased friction/wear on cartilage - Inflammation/pain - Accelerated joint deterioration 💪 Protect your synovial fluid health by: - Staying hydrated - Maintain healthy weight - Regular, low-impact exercise - Getting adequate nutrients, esp those supporting joint health #jointpain #synovialjoint . 👇 Dealing w/ joint cracking and pops? SHARE your #JointHealth tips

Modern (Plastic) Knee Replacement Parts 🦿 The success of your #kneereplacement surgery largely depends on a special plastic called Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE). This remarkable material has been the gold standard in joint replacements since the 1960s, and continued innovations are making it even better. Today's advanced crosslinked polyethylene implants (HXLPE) are engineered to be incredibly wear-resistant while maintaining the strength needed to support your daily activities, like your joint's new shock absorber, designed to last for decades. #jointreplacement . Studies show these modern polyethylene materials can reduce wear by up to 90% vs materials used in earlier implants. Highly-crosslinked high-molecular weight polyethylene used in modern implants is so durable that it would take about 20-30 yrs of normal use to wear down just 1mm and that's why most modern joint replacements last for life. The future looks even brighter with ongoing research and #medicalinnovation - Talk to your orthopedic surgeon about the latest advancements in hip and knee #jointreplacement technology. . 👇 SHARE your new hip or knee experience. What joint replacement questions do you have?

Wrist Fracture Plates and Screws - Distal radius fractures are the most common upper extremity injury (>450,000/yr in the US). Whether from a simple fall or high-impact trauma, proper treatment is crucial for optimal recovery. Non-surgical treatment may be appropriate if: - Fracture alignment is acceptable - Bones are minimally displaced #WristFracture - You're >65 with lower activity demands . Surgical intervention may become necessary when: - Bones are significantly displaced #HandSurgery - Joint surface is involved - You're younger or highly active - Fracture is unstable Surgical options include: - Volar locking plates (most common, allows earlier motion) - External fixation (uses pins/frame outside the skin) - Percutaneous pinning (less invasive option for simple fractures) Timing matters: Research shows better outcomes when surgery is performed within 7 dys of injury and early intervention typically means easier procedures + better reduction quality. #brokenwrist #wristsurgery . ⬇️ SHARE your #WristInjury experience & tips #OrthopedicSurgery

Bone Scalpel (UBS) for SAFER Bone Cuts in Orthopedic Surgery - Unlike traditional orthopedic cutting tools, an ultrasonic #bonescalpel uses high-frequency vibrations (22,500 cycles/s) to cut bone while preserving surrounding soft tissues. This selective cutting ability significantly reduces the risk of complications like dural tears and nerve injuries. Key benefits: - Decreased blood loss during surgery - Enhanced surgical precision #SpineSurgery - Reduced risk of thermal injury #surgicalinstruments - Better preservation of surrounding tissues - Faster bone healing #OrthopedicSurgery - Lower complication rates Recent studies show UBS particularly excels in Spinal decompression procedures, Complex vertebral tumor removals, Minimally invasive spine surgery, Deformity correction surgeries and Revision spine procedures. The technology's precision allows surgeons to perform intricate bone work in tight spaces while protecting vital structures. This translates to improved safety profiles and potentially better outcomes for patients. While UBS requires some learning curve, its benefits are making it an increasingly essential tool in modern orthopedic surgery. . 👇 SHARE your #BoneScalpel experience & insights . . . 🎥 Bioventus™️, check-out bone scalpel demo @Chester J Donnally III, MD