Trauma ranges from simple fractures to the most complex life-threatening injuries, which is why it is essential that you seek immediate medical attention. Trauma can also be caused by overuse such as running long distances, which often results in tibial stress fractures, a small group of cracks in the lower leg.

When is trauma surgery indicated?

Life-threatening injuries like protruding bones require immediate medical attention. In some cases, trauma is not life-threatening, but it still requires specialised medical attention. As a trauma surgeon, Dr Wynand Steenkamp can indicate trauma surgery for the following simple and complex trauma injuries:

• Closed bone fractures (broken bone that doesn't break through the skin).
• Open bone fractures (broken bone that breaks through the skin).
• Stress bone fractures (small, hairline crack in the bone that’s caused by overuse)
• Joint dislocation (a joint forced/pushed out of its rightful position)
• Overuse injuries

Even though your primary GP or local urgent care clinic are able to treat some of these injuries, it is a good idea to an orthopaedic surgeon for a thorough examination of the affected area. Orthopaedic surgeons have advanced knowledge of the musculoskeletal system.

What does trauma surgery entail?

Dr Steenkamp will first perform a comprehensive examination of the affected area, which will involve the use of x-rays to determine the extent of the fracture or dislocation.

Resuscitation and stabilisation may also be performed. General anaesthesia will be administered to put you to sleep throughout the procedure. The surgeon will make an incision over the bone fracture site to stabilise and repair the fracture. Plates and screws may be used to secure the bone in place. A bone graft can also be used if your bone shattered into fragments during the injury. If your blood vessels are damaged, Dr Steenkamp will also repair them. After the procedure, the incisions will be stitched closed.