What is an Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon?

Jean-Jacques Abitbol, MD, FRCSC
Orthopaedic Surgeon
California Spine Group, MC
San Diego, CA
Susan Spinasanta
Senior Medical Editor
SpineUniverse
Desert Hot Springs, CA

Orthopaedics is a medical specialty that focuses on the body's musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. An orthopaedic spine surgeon is an orthopaedist who further specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal diseases and conditions.

Orthopaedic spine surgeons provide nonoperative and surgical treatment to patients of all ages, although some focus on treating children (pediatric), or adults. Some orthopaedic spine surgeons exclusively treat certain spinal problems such as scoliosis, degenerative disorders, or a particular region of the spine (cervical/neck, lumbar/low back).

Last Updated: 01/21/2008

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