Dr André Olivier has been serving the community of the Helderberg area since 2015 and has had many success stories throughout his career as an Orthopaedic Surgeon. He has extensive experience in performing primary hip and knee replacements, revision arthroplasty and knee arthroscopies. He sub-specialised in Musculoskeletal Tumours and Joint Reconstruction. In addition to his elective practice, he is also an on-call doctor for trauma and fractures. Read along as we dive into the world of orthopaedics by Dr Olivier!

‘Orthopaedic surgery is my passion and I am proud to serve my patients. I have the best job in the world!’ – Dr André Olivier

Arthroscopic Surgery

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is used to diagnose and treat problems inside the joints. The word “arthroscopy” comes from two Greek words: “arthro,” meaning joint, and “skopein,” meaning to look. Arthroscopic surgery is also commonly referred to as keyhole surgery or minimally invasive surgery.

During an arthroscopic procedure, your surgeon will make a small incision in your skin and insert a thin, flexible camera called an arthroscope into your joint. The camera displays pictures of the inside of your joint on a monitor, allowing your surgeon to see the problem areas. Your surgeon can then treat the problem by inserting small instruments through other incisions in your skin.

Arthroscopic surgery is often used to treat:

  • Joint pain
  • Tendonitis
  • Meniscus tears
  • Loose bodies in the joint
  • Cartilage damage

Joint Replacement

Joint replacement surgery is one of the most common and successful types of orthopaedic surgery. It involves replacing a damaged joint with an artificial joint, called a prosthesis. Joint replacement surgery can be performed on any joint in the body but is most commonly done on the hip, knee or shoulder.

Joint replacement surgery is usually done to relieve pain and improve joint function. In most cases, people who have joint replacement surgery are able to return to their previous level of activity and resume their normal daily activities.

The success of joint replacement surgery depends on many factors, including the type of prosthesis used and the patient’s age and health.

Revision & Complex Revision Arthroplasty

In some cases, revision or complex revision arthroplasty may be necessary after an initial orthopaedic surgery. Revision surgery is typically more complicated than the original procedure and may involve replacing a failed joint implant or correcting other issues that have arisen since the first surgery. Complex revision arthroplasty is even more complex, often involving multiple surgeries to correct multiple problems.

Patients who require revision or complex revision arthroplasty usually have more extensive pre-operative planning and testing than those who undergo primary orthopaedic surgery. This is because revision procedures are often more technically demanding and carry a higher risk of complications. Nevertheless, many patients who undergo revision or complex revision arthroplasty go on to lead active and fulfilling lives.

Orthopaedic Oncology

Orthopaedic oncology is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of tumours in the musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues.

Orthopaedic oncologists are specially trained to deal with these types of tumours. They use a variety of techniques to diagnose and treat these tumours. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

Orthopaedic oncologists work closely with other specialists to provide the best possible care for their patients. These specialists include medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and radiologists.

Your quality of life is essential. If you or someone close to you is having chronic musculoskeletal pain, it is important to get medical help immediately. Please contact Dr Olivier’s office situated at Vergelegen Mediclinic Somerset West at 021 850 6398 or admin@newlimb.co.za to make an appointment.

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