1. Minimally invasive surgery. Since the introduction of arthroscopy in 1980, minimally invasive surgery has become an increasingly viable option for orthopedic surgeons and is no used in total joint replacements. This is due to a panoply of advances, including better microscopes an computer-guided navigation. It has meant that more surgery can be done on an outpatient basis with less pain, faster healing and better outcomes.
2. Better infection control. “Infections can be devastating when they occur,” Dr. Dietz says. Orthopedic surgeons have placed more emphasis on controlling infections better. They are collaborating with infectious disease specialists to understand infections before they occur. Indiana Orthopaedic Hospital now has system-wide policies in place.
3. Use of biologics. The future is very bright for biologics, which can stimulate the healing process and allows surgeons to do smaller operations. Advances include stem cell therapy, platelet-rich plasma injections, recombinant bone morphogenetic proteins and bone morphogenetic protein.
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