Are you suffering from bone disease? Do you need to consult an orthopedic surgeon but are not sure about it? Orthopedics is a branch of medicine concerned with problems related to bone and its associated structures. This post will discuss what to expect when you visit a Clifton, NJ orthopedics surgeon.
History-
Your doctor will take history related to your problems like the intensity of pain, stiffness, swelling, bone growth, etc. Make sure you mention all pain while discussing without thinking whether that pain is due to orthopedic reasons or not. Let the doctor decide that. The doctor will ask about existing health issues such as osteoporosis, arthritis, diabetes, obesity, anemia, hypertension, etc., as they may impact the treatment plan.
Examination-
Then, the surgeon checks for the gait(walking pattern) and any limp in the walk, thoroughly examines the affected part for bone deformity, swelling, and muscle pain, and performs a thorough neurological examination. He will assess the basic movements like walking, standing, sitting, bending forward and backward, running, etc. If the doctor finds any bony lump, he advises further investigations.
Diagnostic tests-
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Radiographs
The surgeon may advise radiographs of the affected site like plain film radiography, X-rays using contrast media, xeroradiography, and tomography to know the exact location of bony growth and its size, shape, and density. He also checks the structures associated with the joint in the radiograph.
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Blood tests
The doctor may also advise blood tests to look for changes in components of blood. Non-specific blood tests are also helpful in many cases. But it is not a conclusive test.
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X-rays using contrast media-
It involves the insertion of different chemicals into the bone and scanning to get an exact diagnosis.
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Bone biopsy
The ultimate and most precise diagnostic tool is the bone biopsy, which helps determine the exact cause of the deformity and pathological cause.
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Other diagnostic methods
Doctors can advise other diagnostic tools like synovial fluid analysis, bone-seeking isotopes, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging.
Conclusion
Not all bone deformities and lesions are severe but ignoring them can cause more harm, and complications can be painful. Consult your doctor at the right time; otherwise, a lifelong deformity can result. Although a general physician can also help you, an orthopedic surgeon does the surgery.