Within the span of only a few seconds, the impact of a violent, high-energy collision or other traumatic event can cause severe damage to the musculoskeletal system and turn the victim's life upside down. The effects of a motor vehicle accident, fall or athletic injury can be extremely painful and debilitating–often lasting for months, years and even a lifetime. Expert care must be provided promptly to optimize the patient's recovery and return to normal functioning.

The multidisciplinary team of specialists from the Division of Orthopaedic Trauma encompasses specialists from orthopaedic trauma, plastic surgery, neuromuscular surgery, vascular surgery and radiology at Allegheny General Hospital, offering sophisticated diagnostic and treatment options for traumatic injuries to the musculoskeletal system.

Surgeons treat mild to severe forms of orthopaedic trauma involving the pelvis, hip, acetabulum, and upper and lower extremities, as well as ligament and tendon tears, joint dislocations and soft tissue injuries. They also concentrate on the effective treatment of complications resulting from orthopaedic trauma–collarbone fractures that do not heal, crushed bone, multiple orthopaedic trauma, osteomyelitis and serious bone defects. In addition, specialists provide skeletal realignment and stabilization, and post-traumatic reconstruction.