An interactive deep-dive into the world of bones, joints, and the surgeries that fix them. From anatomy to cutting-edge robotics.
The branch of medicine focused on the musculoskeletal system — bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.
The adult skeleton contains 206 bones, forming the structural framework that orthopedic surgeons repair and reconstruct.
Ortho surgeons complete 4 years of college, 4 years of med school, 5 years of residency, and often 1-2 years of fellowship.
The term was coined by Nicolas Andry from Greek: orthos (straight) + paidion (child). Originally focused on children's skeletal deformities.
Nearly 1 million hip and knee replacements are performed annually in the US alone — projected to grow 673% by 2030.
Orthopedists treat conditions with both surgical procedures and conservative methods like physical therapy, casting, and injections.
From newborns with clubfeet to elderly patients with arthritis — orthopedic care spans the entire human lifespan.
Click on a structure to learn about it. These are the building blocks orthopedic surgeons work with every day.
Orthopedic surgery branches into highly focused areas of expertise. Click any card to learn more.
The surgeries that keep the world moving. Click any row for details.
| Procedure | Volume (US/yr) | Duration | Recovery | Type |
|---|
From ancient Greece to AI-guided robotics — the evolution of orthopedic surgery.
The cutting edge of orthopedic technology is reshaping what's possible.
What to expect after common orthopedic procedures. Bars show relative time to milestone.
10 questions to see how much you've learned about orthopedic surgery.
Surprising things about the musculoskeletal system.