What Orthopedic Surgeons DoDiagnose and perform surgery to treat and prevent rheumatic and other diseases in the musculoskeletal system.
- Analyze patient's medical history, medication allergies, physical condition, and examination results to verify operation's necessity and to determine best procedure.
- Conduct research to develop and test surgical techniques that can improve operating procedures and outcomes related to musculoskeletal injuries and diseases.
- Diagnose bodily disorders and orthopedic conditions, and provide treatments, such as medicines and surgeries, in clinics, hospital wards, or operating rooms.
- Diagnose or treat disorders of the musculoskeletal system.
- Direct and coordinate activities of nurses, assistants, specialists, residents, and other medical staff.
Orthopedic Surgeons Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationDoctoral or Professional Degree
Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)
Training TimeOver 4 years
Job Openings400 Annually
Median Earnings
$239,200 in California
$239,200 Nationally
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Real Talk Reel
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Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Relating with or serving others
- Thinking and problem solving
- Working with my hands
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Job security
- Receiving recognition
you are skilled in
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
- Monitoring
- Operations Monitoring
Go Deeper: Orthopedic Surgeons Explained
Orthopedic SurgeonExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
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What Is the Healthcare Industry?
HealthcareThe primary activities of this group involve delivering medical care and support to patients, including diagnosing illness, treating injuries, administering medication, assisting with daily living activities, and completing corresponding administrative tasks.