Description

Orthopedic surgeons work with the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments. They perform surgery to address trauma, tumors, injuries, infections and other conditions requiring surgical intervention. Specific conditions that orthopedic surgeons may address include arthritis, spine disorders such as scoliosis, dislocations and fractures, and damage to tendons, muscles and ligaments, among others. These professionals may focus on general orthopedic surgery or have a specific specialty such as sports medicine, pediatrics, joint replacement or a particular part of the body (such as the spine, hand, and shoulder and elbows).Orthopedic surgeons must examine patients to determine a diagnosis and work with patients to determine a course of treatment, which may include surgery, physical therapy and/or medication. At all steps of the process, they must ensure that patients understand their diagnosis and treatment plan, as well as answer any questions that arise. Orthopedic surgeons generally work in a clinic setting or within a specialty hospital, and they must work effectively with a wide variety of medical colleagues and patients.Orthopedic surgeons must obtain an undergraduate degree before attending an accredited medical school. Once the individual has graduated from medical school, they complete a five-year residency program; they may subsequently complete a fellowship to specialize in a specific area such as pediatrics or sports medicine.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Orthopedic Surgeon with 3-6 years of experience in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

  • Perform orthopedic surgeries, such as joint replacements, fracture repairs, and spinal procedures, using the latest techniques and equipment.
  • Diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions, including injuries, diseases, and deformities, through comprehensive evaluations and diagnostic tests.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including physiotherapists, radiologists, and nurses, to develop personalized treatment plans and ensure optimal patient care.
  • Stay updated with advancements in orthopedic research and technology, attend conferences, and participate in continuing medical education to enhance clinical knowledge and skills.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Orthopedic Surgeon, the following qualifications are required:

  • Candidates must possess a medical degree from an accredited institution to demonstrate their understanding of medical principles and procedures.
  • Candidates should have successfully completed a residency program specializing in orthopedic surgery to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge in treating musculoskeletal conditions.
  • Certification by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS) or relevant certification board is essential to ensure the surgeon's expertise and competence in orthopedic surgery.
  • Candidates must possess excellent surgical skills, including precision, dexterity, and good hand-eye coordination, to perform orthopedic surgeries effectively and safely.

Essential Skills For Orthopedic Surgeon

1

Health Care

2

Emergency Response

3

Medical Technology

Skills That Affect Orthopedic Surgeon Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Healthcare Operations

17%

Medicines Management

7%

Career Prospects

The role of an Orthopedic Surgeon is vital in providing specialized healthcare for musculoskeletal conditions. For experienced professionals with 3-6 years of work experience in Canada, there are several alternative roles to consider. Here are four options to explore:

  • Sports Medicine Physician: A role that focuses on diagnosing and treating sports-related injuries, working closely with athletes to optimize performance and prevent future injuries.
  • Rehabilitation Specialist: A position that involves helping patients recover from injuries or surgeries through physical therapy, exercise, and other rehabilitation techniques.
  • Orthopedic Researcher: A role in the field of medical research, conducting studies to advance knowledge and develop innovative treatments for orthopedic conditions.
  • Medical Device Sales Representative: A position that involves promoting and selling orthopedic devices and implants to healthcare facilities, surgeons, and other medical professionals.

How to Learn

According to the latest available data from Google, the projected growth of the Orthopedic Surgeon position in Canada is promising. Over the next 10 years, the job role is expected to experience positive growth in the market, creating numerous employment opportunities. Although the specific number of opportunities was not mentioned, the increasing demand for orthopedic surgeons indicates a sustained need for their expertise. This trend aligns with the growing aging population and advancements in healthcare technology. Overall, the future outlook for Orthopedic Surgeons in Canada appears favorable, with a positive market growth trajectory and ample employment prospects.