Orthopedic Surgery
Treatments
Orthopaedic surgery is used when conservative measures alone are no longer sufficient to provide lasting pain relief, restore mobility, or correct structural damage to the musculoskeletal system. At Dr Pittl’s orthopaedic surgery practice in Innsbruck, the patient is always at the centre: every orthopaedic procedure is planned individually, based on a thorough diagnosis and with consideration of innovative, tissue-sparing surgical techniques. The aim is always to address symptoms in a targeted way and improve quality of life in the long term.
Dr. Gregor Pittl
Specialist in Orthopedics and Traumatology in Innsbruck
What does orthopaedic surgery include?
Orthopaedic surgery includes surgical procedures for treating conditions and injuries of the musculoskeletal system. These include:
Minimally invasive joint replacement – hip and knee
In cases of advanced osteoarthritis or severe joint damage, the use of an endoprosthesis can significantly improve quality of life. Dr. Pittl specialises in minimally invasive hip and knee joint arthroplasty. This technique makes it possible to preserve the surrounding tissue as much as possible, shorten recovery time, and enable a more natural range of motion.
Revision joint replacement surgery is also performed for loosened, worn, or infected implants.
Arthroscopic surgery – knee and ankle
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a camera and surgical instruments are inserted into the joint through small incisions. As part of orthopaedic surgery with Dr Pittl, arthroscopic procedures on the knee and ankle are performed to treat meniscal damage, cartilage defects, ligament injuries, or instability.
Shoulder surgery
Shoulder problems—whether due to impingement syndrome or a rotator cuff injury—can significantly restrict mobility. Surgical reconstruction of the rotator cuff as well as surgical treatment of impingement can address pain in a targeted manner and restore shoulder function.
Foot and ankle surgery
Foot and ankle surgery covers a wide range of orthopaedic procedures to correct malalignments, instability, and degenerative changes:
- Hallux valgus & hallux rigidus: correction of big toe malalignment as well as fusion procedures for advanced osteoarthritis
- Hammer toes & splayfoot: surgical straightening and offloading
- Flatfoot correction: restoration of physiological foot alignment and biomechanics
- Ankle instability: ligament reconstructions for stabilisation
- Cartilage procedures: treatment of cartilage damage in the ankle
- Morton’s metatarsalgia, corns, ingrown toenail: targeted surgical treatment
Hand surgery
Orthopaedic hand surgery procedures with Dr Pittl include, among others:
- Rhizarthrosis: surgical treatment of osteoarthritis of the thumb CMC joint
- Dupuytren’s contracture: removal of the altered connective tissue to restore finger extension
- Trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis): surgical release of the narrowed tendon sheath
- De Quervain’s tendinopathy: surgical decompression of the affected tendon sheath at the wrist
Surgery for rheumatic diseases
Rheumatic diseases can permanently damage joints, tendons, and surrounding tissue. As part of orthopaedic surgery, Dr Pittl offers surgical solutions to correct loss of function, relieve pain, and maintain patients’ independence.
When is orthopaedic surgery advisable?
Dr Pittl always makes the decision for surgery together with the patient, based on a meaningful diagnosis and after exhausting all appropriate conservative alternatives.
However, orthopaedic surgery is advisable when:
- conservative measures such as physiotherapy, injections, or physical therapy have not led to lasting improvement over an adequate period of time
- there is structural damage that cannot be corrected without surgery
- symptoms significantly limit quality of life, mobility, or ability to work
- an acute event, such as a rotator cuff tear or a ligament injury, requires prompt surgical treatment
Process & preparation for orthopaedic surgery
Every orthopaedic procedure with Dr Pittl follows a structured, patient-centred process:
- Orthopaedic examination & diagnosis: medical history, clinical examination, imaging (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound)
- Consultation and informed consent: explanation of the diagnosis, the planned orthopaedic procedure, possible alternatives, as well as risks and expectations
- Preoperative preparation: individual preparation depending on the procedure (e.g. blood tests, anaesthesia consultation, medication adjustments)
- Surgical treatment: performing the procedure according to the latest standards in orthopaedic surgery
- Postoperative care: follow-up checks, dressing changes, pain management, and initiation of rehabilitation
As an experienced orthopaedic specialist in Innsbruck, Dr Pittl combines surgical techniques with a holistic treatment approach. Orthopaedic procedures are planned individually, performed gently, and supported by structured follow-up care.
Contact us if you would like advice on orthopaedic surgery in Innsbruck. If desired, a personal initial consultation is available as part of a private appointment.
Make an appointment at our practice.
Dr. Gregor Pittl
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does recovery take after an orthopedic operation?
Recovery time depends heavily on the specific procedure. Minimally invasive procedures such as arthroscopy often allow a quick return to everyday life, while after joint replacement surgery a structured rehabilitation program of several weeks is recommended.
Are minimally invasive orthopedic surgeries gentler?
Yes, they usually allow for faster recovery and less strain on the tissue.
Are outpatient orthopedic surgeries possible at Dr. Pittl’s?
Some procedures, especially arthroscopic surgeries and hand surgeries, can be performed on an outpatient or day-case basis. The precise planning is determined individually during the consultation.
How do I prepare for orthopedic surgery?
Preparation is individualized and will be discussed during the consultation with Dr. Pittl. Generally, measures such as discontinuing blood-thinning medications, fasting before the procedure, and organizing aftercare may be relevant.
Are orthopedic surgeries covered by health insurance?
Medically necessary orthopedic surgeries are generally covered by statutory health insurance. For procedures performed during private consultation hours or for additional services, individual clarification with your insurance provider is recommended.
