Orthopedic Trauma Services
Injuries happen, and when they do, it’s natural to want the best care possible for you or your loved one. At the Westfield Orthopedic Group, we understand how devastating a traumatic injury can be, which is why we prioritize clear communication with our patients to ensure that all treatment options available are explained and understood. Our board-certified surgeons Dr. Shaw, Dr. Krell and Dr. Choi are highly skilled in orthopedic trauma.
Understanding orthopedic trauma and when surgery may be necessary
Trauma is any injury that’s caused by an external force, which may be severe or life-threatening in extreme cases. Orthopedic trauma means that this type of injury involves some part of the musculoskeletal system, such as the bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, or tendons.
Any sudden incident that causes an injury to the musculoskeletal system is classified as orthopedic trauma, with common examples including falls, car accidents, physical violence, and sports injuries. Since the potential causes of orthopedic trauma are so numerous, the types of resulting injuries can range significantly as well, from simple hairline fractures to severe accidents with multiple fractures.
As orthopedic surgeons who frequently see patients with these types of injuries, our goal at the Westfield Orthopedic Group is always to restore the function of the injured structures quickly and efficiently with the most appropriate interventions. Many traumatic orthopedic injuries can be effectively treated with a nonsurgical approach that
may include casts, splints, rest, and/or physical therapy, but surgery may be needed for more severe injuries that are unlikely to heal properly without surgical correction. Some of the more common traumatic orthopedic services we provide include treatment for the following conditions:
- Hand, wrist, and elbow fractures
- Shoulder fractures
- Hip and pelvis fractures
- Ankle fractures
- Periarticular fractures (breaks around a joint)
- Dislocations
- Tendon, ligament, and meniscus tears
- Complex soft-tissue injuries
For patients that do require surgery for an initial injury or to address any complications that may arise afterwards, Dr. Shaw, Dr. Krell and Dr. Choi only use the most up-to-date, evidence-based procedures to ensure that all patients are receiving the highest standard of trauma care. We also take the time needed to explain what patients can expect from our orthopedic trauma services and answer any questions about the procedure recommended, including the risks, benefits, and timeline for recovery.
Learn more about our orthopedic trauma services
While most severe or life-threatening orthopedic injuries will require a trip to the emergency room or urgent care center, others may not demand immediate treatment. If you or a loved one has recently experienced any orthopedic trauma and would like to learn more about our services, contact the Westfield Orthopedic Group at 908-232-3879 or fill out an appointment request form.