Orthopaedic Surgery in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide

What is orthopaedic surgery?

Orthopaedic surgery is a branch of surgery that focuses on the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. Whether it’s to repair a broken bone, replace a damaged joint, or correct a spinal issue, orthopaedic surgery can significantly improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance your quality of life. As daunting as surgery may seem, knowing what to expect before, during, and after can be helpful.

This article outlines what you can expect at each stage of orthopaedic surgery, from preparation to recovery.

Reasons for orthopaedic surgery 

Orthopaedic surgery is only considered when non-surgical treatments have not provided sufficient relief for certain bone, joint, or muscle conditions. Here are common situations where your doctor might discuss surgical options:

Severe joint pain

• When daily activities become difficult due to persistent joint pain

• If walking, climbing stairs, or moving becomes increasingly challenging

• When joint stiffness significantly limits your movement

Bone fractures

• Some broken bones may not heal properly without surgery

• Complex fractures involving joints

• Multiple breaks in the same bone

Sports injuries

• Torn ligaments that affect joint stability

• Severe tendon injuries

• Damaged cartilage that causes ongoing joint problems

Progressive conditions

• Advanced arthritis affecting joint function

• Spine conditions that affect nerves

• Bone deformities that worsen over time

It's important to note that orthopaedic surgery is typically considered only after trying other treatments first. If you are suffering from any of the conditions above, please make an appointment with one of our specialists, who will carefully assess your specific condition and medical history before advising you on the best course of action. 

Before orthopedic surgery

Preparing for orthopaedic surgery involves several important steps to ensure the procedure goes smoothly and safely. Here’s what you can expect:

Preoperative consultation

Before surgery, you will need to meet your orthopaedic surgeon for a detailed consultation. During this visit:

• The surgeon will evaluate your condition, discuss the necessity of the surgery, and explain the benefits and risks.

• You’ll have an opportunity to ask questions about the procedure, recovery process, and expected outcomes.

• To assess the affected area and make sure you're in good health for surgery, doctors may perform diagnostic tests like X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, or blood tests.

• If you have any underlying medical conditions (e.g., heart issues, diabetes), your doctor may ask you to consult other specialists to ensure you're fit for surgery.

Request an appointment with our experts for a smooth, personalised preparation before your orthopaedic surgery. Our doctors will guide you through every step, including consultations, health evaluations, medication reviews, and pre-surgery instructions, to ensure the best outcome and recovery.

Medication review and adjustments

You will need to provide your doctor with a list of all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter products you are currently taking. Depending on your situation: 

• Blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, warfarin) may need to be stopped to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery.

• Certain supplements or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be paused as they can interfere with healing.

Pre-surgery instructions

The days before surgery will include specific instructions like:

• Fasting: 

  • You may be asked to avoid food and drink for a certain period before the surgery (often 8–12 hours) to reduce the risk of complications from anaesthesia.

• Arrangements for transportation: 

  • Since you won’t be able to drive after surgery, it’s important to arrange for someone to take you to and from the hospital.

• Home preparation: 

  • If the surgery involves a joint or bone, like a hip or knee replacement, you may need to prepare your home to ensure a smooth recovery, such as removing tripping hazards and setting up a comfortable recovery space.

During orthopaedic surgery

Orthopaedic surgery can be minimally invasive (arthroscopy) or open surgery, depending on the complexity of the condition. Here’s what to expect during the procedure:

Anesthesia options

Before the surgery begins, you will receive anaesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. The type of anaesthesia depends on the surgery and your health.

• General anaesthesia: 

  • You will be fully asleep and unconscious during the surgery.

• Regional anaesthesia: 

  • Numbs a specific part of the body (such as the lower half for hip or knee surgeries) while you remain awake but pain-free.

• Local anaesthesia: 

  • Numbs a small, localised area where the surgery is taking place (common in minor procedures like carpal tunnel release).

The surgical procedure

The length of the surgery varies based on the complexity of the procedure. Common orthopaedic surgeries include:

• Joint replacement: 

  • Involves replacing a damaged joint (such as a hip or knee) with an artificial one.

• Arthroscopy: 

  • A minimally invasive procedure using small incisions and a camera to diagnose or repair joint issues.

• Fracture repair: 

  • This involves aligning and stabilising broken bones using plates, screws, rods, or pins.

• Spinal surgery: 

  • Aims to correct conditions like herniated discs, scoliosis, or spinal stenosis.

During the surgery, the orthopaedic surgeon will follow a pre-planned course of action to address the issue, using specialised tools and techniques to ensure the best possible outcome.

Closing the incision

After the procedure is complete, the surgeon will close the incision with sutures, staples, or surgical glue. In some cases, a drain may be placed to remove excess fluids from the surgical site during the first few days of recovery.

Understanding the steps involved in orthopaedic surgery can help you feel more prepared and confident. Schedule an appointment with our experts to discuss your orthopaedic surgery options and receive personalised care for optimal outcomes.

After orthopaedic surgery

The recovery phase is crucial to achieving a successful outcome from orthopaedic surgery. What you do after the surgery can directly affect how well and how quickly you heal.

Postoperative care in the hospital

After the surgery, you will be moved to a recovery area where medical staff will monitor your vital signs as you wake up from anaesthesia.

• Pain management: 

  • You may experience some pain or discomfort after surgery, and your medical team will provide medications to control pain. This can include oral painkillers or intravenous medications.

• Mobility: 

  • Depending on the type of surgery, you may be encouraged to move as soon as possible. For joint surgeries, such as knee or hip replacement, physical therapists will help you get out of bed and begin walking within 24 hours to prevent complications like blood clots.

• Monitoring for complications: 

  • The hospital staff will monitor you for potential complications, such as infection, excessive bleeding, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). They will also check the surgical site for signs of healing.

Discharge and at-home recovery

Once you are stable, you will be discharged to recover at home. Your doctor will provide detailed instructions, including:

• Wound care: 

  • Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Instructions on how to change bandages and watch for signs of infection (redness, swelling, warmth) will be given.

• Activity restrictions: 

  • You will be advised on what movements or activities to avoid during recovery. Depending on the surgery, you may need to limit weight-bearing or use crutches or a walker.

• Follow-up appointments: 

  • You’ll need to schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress and ensure the surgical site is healing well. Sutures or staples may be removed during these visits.

Rehabilitation and physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is often a key component of recovery from orthopaedic surgery. A physiotherapist will guide you through exercises to:

• Improve range of motion and mobility.

• Strengthen the muscles around the affected joint or bone.

• Prevent stiffness and promote healing.

Rehabilitation typically begins in the hospital and continues for weeks to months after discharge, depending on the type of surgery. Consistency with your physiotherapy plan is critical for a successful recovery.

Long-term recovery

Recovering from orthopaedic surgery can take weeks to months. Some people may get back to their usual activities within a few weeks, but others might need more time, especially after big surgeries like joint replacements. Maintaining good posture, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle is crucial for long-term success and preventing future complications. 

Orthopaedic surgery can be an effective solution for those suffering from issues affecting the musculoskeletal system. With proper medical guidance and postoperative care, many patients experience significant improvement in their quality of life. 

To discuss whether this procedure might be suitable for you, request for an appointment with our experienced specialists at Thomson Medical today.

FAQ

What is the most common orthopaedic surgery?

Knee arthroscopy is one of the most commonly performed orthopaedic surgeries. This procedure involves examining and treating knee problems through small incisions. It is used for cases involving: 

• Torn meniscus (the cushioning cartilage in your knee)

• Damaged joint lining

• Torn ligaments

• Inflammation in the joint

How long do most orthopaedic surgeries take?

Most orthopaedic surgeries are completed in under an hour, with many patients able to return home the same day. However, the exact duration and recovery time depend on the individual and the procedure performed. 

What is the most difficult orthopaedic surgery to recover from?

Spinal fusion surgery is often considered one of the most challenging orthopaedic procedures to recover from. It's a surgery where two or more vertebrae (backbone bones) are joined together permanently to stop movement between them. Think of it like turning two separate blocks into one solid block.

This surgery is particularly challenging due to several factors such as:

• Length of recovery

• Movement restrictions

• Affect on daily activities

• Required physical therapy

It's important to note that everyone's recovery experience is different, and the length and difficulty of recovery can vary significantly between patients. For specific advice about spinal fusion or other orthopaedic procedures, please consult one of our specialists who can assess your individual situation.

How long does it take to recover from orthopaedic surgery?

Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery, your age, and your overall health. Minor procedures like arthroscopy may take a few weeks, while more complex surgeries like joint replacements may require several months for full recovery.

Will I need physiotherapy after surgery?

Yes, physiotherapy is often essential after orthopaedic surgery to help you regain strength, flexibility, and mobility. Your surgeon will create a personalised rehabilitation plan to aid your recovery.

Is orthopaedic surgery painful?

You may experience some pain and discomfort after surgery, but pain management is a priority. Your medical team will provide medications to keep you comfortable and help you manage pain during the recovery period.

What are the risks associated with orthopaedic surgery?

As with any surgery, there are risks, including infection, blood clots, nerve damage, or complications related to anaesthesia. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you and take steps to minimise them.

Disclaimer: The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist by requesting an appointment with Thomson Medical today.