Orthopedic Surgeon Job Description
Orthopedic surgeon job description and profile
An orthopedic surgeon deals with all bone related issues in the body. His job includes diagnosis of the problem and performing surgery wherever required. He also deals with problems related to the musculature of the human body. An orthopedic surgeon needs to have a special interest in the musculoskeletal organs of the body. The surgeons who opt for private practices earn maximum salaries.
Orthopedic surgeon duties and responsibilities
The duties and responsibilities of an orthopedic surgeon are listed below.
- Performs external examinations and ascertains the root of the bone or muscle trouble
- Formulates treatment plans
- Treats the musculoskeletal problems in the body
- Mends fractures and sprains
- Operates wherever necessary to align and fix bones
- Treats bone and joint related problems like arthritis
- Performs joint replacement surgeries
- Treats back and spinal injuries
- Treats trauma
- Reconstruction of musculoskeletal tissues
- Operates on bone related tumors
Orthopedic surgeon skills and specifications
The skills and specifications of an orthopedic surgeon are given below.
- Decision making abilities
- Should keep up to date in the latest medical developments
- Ability to work long hours
- High precision during surgery
- Genuine care and concern for the patient
- Ability to operate in high pressure emergency situations
Orthopedic surgeon education and qualifications
A study of an orthopedic surgeon lasts for at least eight to nine years. The surgeon has to be certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS) and get the certificate renewed every 10 years. Below given is the list of degrees that a person needs to have in order to practice as an orthopedic surgeon.
- A four year bachelor’s degree in pre-medicine
- A four year medical school degree
- A five year orthopedic surgery residency in a medical facility
- An additional 1 year course in further specialization like orthopedic sports medicine and other sub categories of orthopedic surgery
Orthopedic surgeon salary
The annual median salary of an orthopedic surgeon is $405,448. The salary ranges from the lowest $370,000 to $500,000.