Orthopaedic Surgery: Common Types, Risks and Recovery
Updated: 2 days ago
Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: November 2026 · How we review
Quick Answer
Orthopaedic surgery is any surgery that treats problems with the musculoskeletal system: the bones, joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments. It's used to repair injuries, reshape bones and joints, place artificial implants and remove tumors. Common examples include joint replacements, ACL repair and fixing broken bones. Recovery depends on the procedure and often includes physical therapy.
What the research says
Knee replacement beat therapy alone, with more risks: in 100 people with moderate to severe knee arthritis, knee replacement plus 12 weeks of rehab improved pain and function by 32.5 points versus 16.0 with rehab alone at 1 year, but caused more serious side effects (24 vs. 6) (Skou ST et al., New England Journal of Medicine, 2015) [2]
Hip replacements last a long time: pooling registry data on 215,676 hip replacements, about 58% were still working 25 years after surgery (Evans JT et al., Lancet, 2019) [3]
Key takeaways
Orthopaedic surgery treats bones, joints, muscles and connective tissue.
It repairs injuries, reshapes joints, places implants and removes tumors.
Nonsurgical treatments are usually tried first.
Some procedures use tiny incisions and a camera.
Recovery varies and often includes physical therapy.
What is orthopaedic surgery?
Orthopaedic surgeons specialize in the musculoskeletal system. They treat problems ranging from sports injuries and broken bones to arthritis and bone tumors. Sources: [1]
Why it's done
Some emergency injuries need surgery right away.
Repair injuries or damage.
Reshape bones, joints or tissue.
Insert artificial implants, such as joint replacements.
Remove tumors or growths. Sources: [1]
Physical therapy and medicines are usually tried first. Surgery may be the next step if pain, stiffness or trouble moving continue. Sources: [1]
Common types
Your surgeon explains which procedure fits your problem.
Surgery | What it treats |
Worn-out hips, knees, shoulders and other joints | |
Ligament or tendon repair | ACL or Achilles tendon tears |
Rotator cuff or labrum repair | Shoulder injuries |
Meniscus tears and other joint problems | |
ORIF | Broken bones fixed with plates, screws or rods |
Bunion surgery | Foot deformities |
Microsurgery | Muscles, nerves or blood vessels |
Amputation or limb salvage | Severe injury, infection or tumors |
Sources: [1]
How to prepare
Many procedures use general anesthesia.
Meet your surgeon to learn about the procedure and ask questions.
You may have a checkup and imaging, such as X-rays, an MRI or a CT scan.
Arrange a ride home, since many procedures use general anesthesia.
Ask about crutches, a walker or other equipment you'll need. Sources: [1]
Risks
Bleeding.
Infection.
Blood clots.
Nerve damage.
Problems with implants. Sources: [1, 2]
Recovery
Recovery depends on the surgery; a joint replacement takes longer than a wrist fracture repair. Ask your surgeon about recovery time, pain control, activity limits, wound care and when to start physical therapy. You'll have follow-up visits soon after surgery and possibly later. Sources: [1]
Results
Orthopaedic surgery can reduce pain, improve movement, fix injuries and remove harmful growths. Many joint replacements last for decades. Sources: [1, 3]
When to call your surgeon
Fever.
Severe pain that medicine doesn't relieve.
Bleeding.
Swelling or skin color changes around the site.
Drainage, pus or fluid leaking from the incision. Sources: [1]
Conclusion
Orthopaedic surgery covers a wide range of procedures that can restore movement and ease pain. Working closely with your surgeon and physical therapist helps you recover as fully as possible.
Keep learning: read about hip replacement and knee replacement.
Frequently asked questions
What is orthopaedic surgery?
Surgery on bones, joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments.
What are common orthopaedic surgeries?
Joint replacement, ACL repair, rotator cuff repair, fracture repair and bunion surgery.
When is surgery needed?
Usually after physical therapy and medicines haven't helped, or for serious injuries.
Is arthroscopy orthopaedic surgery?
Yes. It treats joints through small incisions.
What are the risks?
Bleeding, infection, blood clots, nerve damage and implant problems.
How long is recovery?
It depends on the procedure.
Will I need physical therapy?
Often, to regain strength and movement.
How long do joint replacements last?
Many last for decades.
What is ORIF?
Surgery that fixes broken bones with plates, screws or rods.
When should I call my surgeon?
For fever, severe pain, bleeding, swelling or drainage.
Related Reading
Arthroplasty (Joint Replacement): Procedure, Types, and Recovery an overview of joint replacement.
Hip Replacement Surgery: Procedure, Recovery Time and Risks replacing a worn-out hip.
Knee Replacement: Restoring Mobility and Quality of Life replacing a worn-out knee.
Arthroscopy: Joint Surgery Procedure, Uses and Recovery joint surgery through small incisions.
ACL Tear: What It Is, How It Happens, and How It Is Treated a common ligament injury.
References
Cleveland Clinic. Orthopaedic Surgery: Types & Recovery. Cleveland Clinic. Last updated August 2, 2026. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24801-orthopaedic-surgery
Skou ST, Roos EM, Laursen MB, et al. A randomized, controlled trial of total knee replacement. New England Journal of Medicine. 2015;373(17):1597-1606. PMID 26488691. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa1505467
Evans JT, Evans JP, Walker RW, et al. How long does a hip replacement last? A systematic review and meta-analysis of case series and national registry reports with more than 15 years of follow-up. Lancet. 2019;393(10172):647-654. PMID 30782340. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(18)31665-9
Medical disclaimer
This article is for general education only and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor about your own diagnosis and treatment, and seek emergency care right away for severe or sudden symptoms.
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