Orthopaedic Technology

An introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system and related structures. Attention will be directed toward structural make-up, group composition, relationships, and location of each bone. Common fractures and treatments will be discussed in detail. Also covered will be normal and abnormal growth and development and the response to injury and disease, as well as the response of related structures to the mechanisms of injury and disease.

A continuation of Orthopaedic Anatomy and Physiology I with a focus on common orthopaedic injuries and conditions of muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves, and their treatments. Also covered will be the disruption to continuity to the musculoskeletal system and related structures resulting from congenital, emergent, or opportunistic diseases and trauma and their treatments.

Covers the history of radiology and gives the student the basics of radiographic image production. Students will be introduced to the viewing and interpretation of plain orthopaedic radiographs, MRIs, and other types of permanent imaging relating to orthopaedics and terminology relating directly to the skeletal system and fracture healing and describing a fracture as it relates to the radiographic image.

Provides integration of knowledge and terminology utilized for orthopaedic patient physical assessment. Included are lifespan differences and assessment of acute and chronic patient orthopaedic problems. Lab time covering the application and use of various orthopaedic devices, their complications, and contraindications is an intrinsic part of this course, allowing students hands-on experience with these products. Students will learn how to do custom measurements along with brace fitting techniques. Braces will be matched up with their commonly used diagnoses for better conceptual understanding of how these devices affect patient outcomes. Medical coding and reimbursement procedures will also be discussed.

This area is an integral part of the practice of an orthopaedic technologist. Topics to be covered will include the types, application, functions, and materials of the various casts and splints, as well as basic terminology related to the subject. Students will acquire a working knowledge of anatomy specifically relating to casting and splinting, the proper use of external aide devices commonly associated with casting and splinting – such as crutches, canes and walkers – and transfer of patients from wheelchairs and beds. Attention will be given to the removal of casts and splints, as well as the skills associated with providing patient instructions. Students enrolled in this course will be charged a $750 specialty supplies fee.

Introduces students to the world of orthopaedics. Students get an in-depth look into diverse orthopaedic settings, learn appropriate social skills, and learn how to communicate mindfully and effectively with orthopaedic surgeons, patients, and colleagues. Students are encouraged and given the opportunity to engage in regular contemplative practices such as mindfulness meditation. Professional skills with a focus on self care, time management, stress relief, geriatric care, patient awareness, and ethical diversity are presented and evaluated.

Introduces patient care in an orthopaedic environment. Topics will include communication skills, practical skills associated with assisting the orthopaedic surgeon, an understanding of surgical procedures, aseptic techniques, surgical instrumentation, OSHA standards, medications, patient safety, patient transfers, and patient education. In the lab setting, students will learn to take blood pressure, pulse, and BMI measurements, as well as wound care and routine and emergency procedures. Students will be assigned to orthopaedic surgical suites for observation of procedures.

Provides students with initial concentrated clinical experience in an orthopaedic office or hospital setting. Students will practice the skills they have learned in the classroom and lab on real orthopaedic patients under the direct supervision of an orthopaedic clinical supervisor and orthopaedic provider. Clinical placement will be provided by the program coordinator. Students enrolled in this course will be charged an $89 fee covering the cost of the radiation badge, which is required per state/national law and accreditation to monitor student rations dose.

Students will learn advances casting techniques along with windowing of a cast, protection of pins, and external hardware, pin care, and wound care. Custom bracing and DME applications will be reviewed along with proper use of wheelchairs and Hoyer lifts. Students will learn how to accommodate patients who are in wheelchairs, beds, and traction. Students enrolled in this course will be charged a $750 specialty supplies fee.

Students will learn the basic terminology and basic bio-mechanical principles of orthopaedic traction, different types of traction, traction set-up and application, necessary equipment needed for orthopaedic traction, complications, and contraindications. Students will also learn various custom orthopaedic devices, positioning of the patient, complications and contraindications of custom back bracing, and different brace-fitting techniques. Modifying, customizing, and fitting of braces will be discussed. Medical coding for reimbursement for these devises will also be discussed.

Provides students concentrated clinical experience in an orthopaedic office or hospital setting, in which students will practice the skills they have learned in the classroom and lab on real orthopaedic patients under the direct supervision of an orthopaedic clinical supervisor and orthopaedic provider. Clinical placement will be provided by the program coordinator. In addition, students will be required to work in small groups to make a presentation to the class on an advanced topic related to the field of orthopaedic technology. Lecture hours also include a review for the national licensure exam in orthopaedic technology. Students enrolled in this course will be charged a $350 clinical surcharge.