The types of orthopedic issues that can affect children are not of the age-related and disease-related variety – they are mostly congenital defects. There are orthopedic doctors that specialize in the treatment of orthopedic problems in children and are highly trained in performing corrective surgery – they are called pediatric orthopedic surgeons.
Let’s talk about some of the most common pediatric orthopedic issues and the procedures that orthopedic doctors perform to correct them.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a deformity of the spine that is most common in children and adolescents. Most cases of scoliosis do not require surgical treatment, as the progression of the curve can be prevented with a brace. However, in some cases, the curvature may worsen or measure over 40 degrees and require surgery to prevent pain and other physical and social complications. The most common type of scoliosis surgery is called spinal fusion, which involves permanently joining together (fusing) certain bones in the spine using metal rods and screws. This helps to straighten out the spine and relieves pressure on nerves.
Metatarsus Adductus
Metatarsus adductus is a condition where the bones in the foot are abnormally angled inward. Metatarsus adductus surgery is typically only recommended for children over the age of four and with severe deformities. Surgery to correct them may involve cutting the bones to try to put them in their proper position and fixing them with plates and screws.
Clubfoot
Clubfoot is a condition in which the foot points downward and inward instead of straight ahead, and it can be corrected with surgery to release the tendons around the ankle. This surgery involves cutting and repositioning the bones in the foot, so they can be properly aligned. It is a fairly simple procedure that can provide your child with a lifetime of normal foot function.
Limb Differences
Children can have arms and legs that have an abnormal shape or one side is shorter than the other. Reconstructive or limb-lengthening surgery can be used to correct the limb difference, during which the orthopedic surgeon straightens and lengthens the bone and stretches the surrounding soft tissues.
Spina Bifida
Spina bifida is a congenital deformity in which the spine and spinal cord do not develop normally. This can lead to problems with movement and sensation in the affected areas of the body. Spina bifida can be corrected with surgery, which often involves closing the opening in the spine and correcting any abnormalities in the spinal cord or vertebrae while the baby is in utero or as soon as after the baby is born.
Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon in Pembroke Pines and Lauderdale Lakes, FL
The orthopedic surgeons at Total Orthopaedic Care are highly experienced in performing surgeries to correct pediatric orthopedic issues such as those mentioned in this article and more. In addition to treating pediatric patients with congenital deformities, our doctors also routinely treat children with traumatic injuries and developmental and neuromuscular conditions. We have two convenient locations from which to serve you: Pembroke Pines and Lauderdale Lakes. To schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic surgeons for pediatric orthopedic surgery, call us today at (954) 735-3535 or use our convenient online appointment request form.
