Surgical technicians occupy a significant role in the operating room by assisting surgeons and colleagues during operations. They ensure equipment and the operating room are sterile, prepare surgical instruments, and support surgeons during procedures.
Some surgical technicians choose to specialize in a particular area. Read on to learn more about the various specialties surgical technicians can pursue.
Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic surgery focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and repair of issues related to the musculoskeletal system, including bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Many orthopedic surgeries are conducted to restore the function of, or relieve pain resulting from injuries, deformities, and various degenerative conditions.
Surgical technicians specializing in orthopedic surgery will need a deep understanding of bone structures, orthopedic tools, and implant devices. They work alongside orthopedic surgeons to assist in procedures, which can involve joint replacements, fractures, and arthroscopies (which involve the insertion of a minimally invasive camera allowing surgeons to view and repair joints without large incisions).
Cardiovascular Surgery
Cardiovascular surgery treats conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, and can include procedures like coronary artery bypasses and surgeries to treat aneurysms. These are meant to improve heart function, restore blood flow, and prevent or remedy cardiovascular complications.
Those who specialize in cardiovascular surgery will need extensive knowledge of the cardiovascular system and related equipment. Surgical technicians with a cardiovascular specialization may assist surgeons with bypasses, valve replacements, and even heart transplants.
Pediatric Surgery
Pediatric surgery refers to surgical procedures performed on infants, children, and adolescents. It can involve the correction of congenital abnormalities, repair of injuries, or treatment of diseases affecting younger patients. These surgeries are carried out with the intent to minimize any notable impact on developing bodies.
Surgical technicians specializing in pediatrics must have an in-depth understanding of the developmental needs of young patients, and apply the surgical techniques tailored to them.
Endoscopic Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery, discussed briefly in the section about an orthopedic specialization, is a form of endoscopic surgery. Surgical technicians can specialize in and help facilitate endoscopic surgeries. Endoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique in which surgeons use an endoscope (a thin flexible tube with an attached camera and light) to view and perform procedures inside the body. These procedures are performed through small incisions or natural openings.
Technicians who specialize in endoscopy can carry out many different procedures, including laparoscopies, gastroscopies, and colonoscopies. They often work in outpatient settings.
OB-GYN Surgery
Obstetrics and gynecological (OB-GYN) surgical technicians provide assistance with surgeries related to a woman’s reproductive system. Surgeries may aid childbirth, reproductive care, and pelvic disorders. The education and training these techs provide will focus both on patients and their reproductive well-being.
Surgical technicians in OB-GYN care are trained to handle the unique instruments and protocol specific to women’s procedures. Some common surgeries that OB-GYN surgical technicians will be involved in include cesarean sections, hysterectomies, and various laparoscopic procedures for conditions like endometriosis and ovarian cysts.
Neurosurgery
Neurosurgery aims to restore or preserve the function of the brain, spine, or nervous system. Surgical technicians with a focus in neurosurgery will assist with these delicate and complex procedures with high levels of precision and highly specialized tools.
Given the intricacies of the nervous system, these technicians will need advanced knowledge in the handling of this specific equipment.
Geared Up for Success? Find Surgical Technician Training!
Whichever the specialty, surgical technicians are highly trained medical professionals with extensive knowledge of the surgeries they will take part in. We’ve listed just some of the different specializations you can pursue as a surgical technician. Although specializations are not necessary to work as a technician, they may be required for you to get specialized roles in specific fields. Plus, they can help you stand out in the job market.
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