Pediatric Orthopedic Services

We are excited to add pediatric orthopedics to the list of specialties that Texas Orthopedics offers to the Austin and Central Texas community.

Children are not mini adults – they heal differently, and they often require a unique medical and surgical care approach. Infants, young children, and adolescents can all benefit from the expert services of a pediatric orthopedic surgeon.

What Is a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon?

A pediatric orthopedic surgeon is a highly trained medical professional who has your child’s best interests at heart. They specialize in the evaluation and operative treatment of musculoskeletal injuries in the youngest patients.

Regardless of the situation, parents and caregivers experience a feeling of helplessness when their child is injured. They need someone they can trust on their team to bring their child back into the game – they need the expertise of a pediatric orthopedic surgeon.

What Makes a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Unique?

Beginning in infancy, children's bodies are growing and developing into the structure that will define them as adults. This adds a unique dimension to the evaluation and treatment of these special patients.

Pediatric orthopedic surgeons have an in-depth understanding of which stage of development these patients are currently progressing through, and the surgeons are able to design a treatment plan that has minimal impact on their future growth.

The best pediatric orthopedic surgeons have the compassion required to understand the needs of frightened children and to comfort worried family members. We are adept at explaining treatments and procedures in a way that puts our young patients at ease and is clear to the caregiver.

Conditions Treated by a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon

Pediatric orthopedic surgeons have extensive training in identifying basic musculoskeletal conditions that occur across all populations. Their intense training also includes recognizing abnormalities that are unique to infants, young children, and adolescents, and how to treat them throughout development.

Our team is skilled in the evaluation and treatment of the following musculoskeletal conditions:

• Sports injuries
• Fractures
• ACL tears
• Meniscus tears
• Shoulder dislocations
• Shoulder ligament tears
• Abnormal gait patterns
• Hip dysplasia
• Traumatic injuries

Procedures Performed by a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon

Visiting a pediatric orthopedic surgeon does not automatically mean that surgery is the best option. In fact, the opposite is often true. Children heal differently than adults do, so sometimes a more conservative treatment or wait-and-see approach is deemed best.

Utilizing their unique skill set and knowledge, the surgeon will thoroughly assess your child and determine whether surgery is necessary. Common surgical treatments include:

• ACL repair
• Meniscus repair
• Fracture reduction
• Arthroscopic shoulder surgery
• Arthroscopic knee surgery
• Osteotomy
• Joint reconstruction or replacement

Children’s Orthopedic Surgeons in Texas

Regardless of the condition or treatment necessary, you can trust that your child is in good hands with our team. Here at Texas Orthopedics, we will combine compassion with our skill and knowledge to provide your whole family with the best possible care.

Meet our Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Kelly Cline here.