At the Cooper Bone and Joint Institute, David A. Fuller, MD, is advancing the field of reconstructive neuro-orthopaedics using breakthrough surgical procedures to help patients who have lost extremity function after suffering from debilitating injury or atrophy to the neurological system.
Neuro-orthopaedic specialists treat patients of all ages afflicted by a variety of musculoskeletal dysfunctions over a wide range of anatomic locations. Most patients suffer from chronic cerebrospastic disorders brought on by stroke, traumatic brain or spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, or cerebral palsy. Specific disorders can include claw foot or hand, flexed elbow deformity, hip and knee contractures, and scissoring or stiff knee gait.
“Patients who visit our surgical clinic often have sustained a neurological injury and have great difficulty moving their arms or legs. Candidates for reconstructive neuro-orthopaedic surgery typically have exhausted nonsurgical options such as physical therapy, Botox injections, and medications,” says Dr. Fuller. “Our goal is to use advanced surgical treatments on the afflicted extremities to help restore function.
These surgical treatment options can include removing heterotopic bone, releasing muscle contractures, lengthening overactive muscles, and transferring muscles to regain lost motion. Depending on the patient’s age, cognitive status, and the underlying condition, these treatments can restore limb function, movement, or positioning.”
Barbara Harry, CRNP, screens each patient to ensure they are candidates for surgery. Dr. Fuller currently sees prospective neuro-orthopaedic patients every fourth Tuesday of the month from
9 a.m. to noon at the Cooper Bone and Joint Institute, Three Cooper Plaza, Suite 408, Camden.