Orthopedics

Nemours has played a distinguished role as an international leader in the field of orthopedics. The earliest effort by the Nemours Foundation was called “the duPont Institute” and was launched by giants of the developing field of orthopedics. For more than 40 years, the Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children was devoted exclusively to children’s orthopedics and has long provided regional, national and international leadership in the field. Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children is listed in the History, Genealogy and Evolution of Children’s Orthopaedics in North America as one of the current ten “Leading Children’s Orthopedic Fellowship Training Centers.”

Pediatric orthopedics is a branch of medicine dedicated to the treatment of neuromuscular and musculoskeletal problems. Children who are born with abnormal bones, joints, or muscles, or who develop them as a result of disease or injury are cared for by pediatric orthopedists. The goal of treatment is the restoration of function, and when possible, an improved quality of life.

The pediatric orthopedist holds a special position in the orthopedic community. They have the privilege of assisting with a child’s growth and development. They are able to see the effects of their treatment, both surgical and non-surgical, from childhood through adolescence and into adulthood. The children’s orthopedist has the long-term function of the child and future in mind. Certain conditions in childhood, when left untreated, can lead to pain and disability in later years. Part of the orthopedist’s mission is to recognize these conditions and treat them early.

Our orthopedists have a commitment to this mission. They work as a team to provide the highest quality of care to infants, children, and adolescents with rare and complex musculoskeletal injuries and diseases.

Common problems treated include congenital, developmental, and acquired deformities of the spine, upper extremities and lower extremities. Acute problems, including fractures and ligament injuries, are also treated.

Areas of expertise include scoliosis and other spinal deformities; limb length discrepancies and limb deformity corrections; management of complex fractures, including growth plate fractures; residuals of injuries or infections, including joint dysfunction; congenital clubfoot, and other complex foot problems.

Specialized services are also available to treat sports injuries, congenital hip dislocation and acquired hip disorders, and neuromuscular conditions, including cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, arthrogryposis, and spina bifida.

Nemours orthopedists are usually trained in multiple specialties—pediatrics and orthopedics, for example. Nemours orthopedists use an integrated medical record that unifies patient care across specialties and locations, prompting orthopedists to consider best practices gained from Nemours experience and academic literature. We provide excellent care that places the patient and family at the center, and our commitment to communication is central to the process. We strive to create a uniquely satisfying experience bringing peace of mind to patients and families.

Nemours locations offer a range of orthopedic services. Please refer to the sites listed to the left for specific services available at each location.