Orthopedic Trauma Service
The Orthopedic Trauma Program at NMMC provides orthopedic emergency care at a level II facility.
There are many ways that people can break bones in their upper extremities (hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, upper arm, and shoulder) and lower extremities (hip, thigh, knee, lower leg, ankle, and foot).
NMMC's orthopedic surgeons are experienced in treating all types of fractures.
Symptoms
Symptoms of trauma or a fracture in the upper or lower extremities can include:
- A clearly misshapen limb or joint, sometimes with broken skin or visible bone (an open or compound fracture)
- Pain, ranging from mild to severe
- Swelling, bruising, tenderness or numbness near the fracture
- Restricted movement
In most cases, NMMC's orthopedic surgeons can successfully treat fractures without surgery.
Nonsurgical treatments include casts, splints, braces and traction, as well as physical medicine and rehabilitation.
Surgery is sometimes necessary to properly treat breaks that are complicated, severe or resistant to healing. Surgical treatments include fixating (keeping together) the broken parts of the bone using metal pins, screws or plates.
There are several ways to visit the Orthopedic Trauma Service:
- Patients can arrive through the Emergency Department.
- Hospital-to-hospital transfer. Once a patient has been accepted by the hospital for special surgery, a nurse coordinator will handle the transfer and all logistical issues.
- Physician-to-physician referral.
If you have an upcoming appointment at the NMMC Orthopedic Trauma Clinic, please print this form, fill it out, and bring it with you.
