Orthopedic surgery is the operation performed by an orthopedist or orthopedic surgeon, who are trained and licensed to assess and treat broken bones, joint problems, deformities or any injuries to the musculoskeletal system. The orthopedic surgery is a corrective procedure for problems arising from skeleton and its attachments, the ligaments and tendons. It is also use to treat problems of the nervous system. Problems may be acute or chronic.

Orthopedic surgeon or an orthopedist refers to medical doctor that has special training and receive certification on orthopedics. While many orthopedic surgeons are general practitioner, some specialize in specific areas of orthopedics like joint replacements, spine disorders, hand surgery and trauma medicines. Sports injury is a fast growing area of orthopedics.

Operations performed by an orthopedic surgeon include arthroplasty, bone grafting, fracture repair, kneecap removal, arthroscopic surgery and traction. In an orthopedic surgery, general, regional or local anesthesia can be performed.

Most of the surgery conducted by the orthopedic surgeon involves placing foreign materials like screws, wires, tongs and pins to damaged bones in their correct alignment; and prosthetics to substitute damaged connective tissues and bones. With advanced technology, great improvements have been made in the materials necessary to restore damaged bones and connective tissue, and the development of synthetic limbs and joints.

Before any orthopedic surgery, patients undergo extensive testing and evaluation to find out the appropriate treatment and corrective procedures. Orthopedist may recommend X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) computed tomography or CT scans, diagnostic arthroplasty, myelograms and blood tests. For major operation, orthopedic surgeon would recommend an electrocardiogram or some diagnostics tests prior to the operation.

After operation, orthopedic surgeon works closely with physical therapist to make sure that the patients get the required treatment for their condition and to improve or return the function of the affected body parts.