Dr. W. Laurence Wickler | Anchorage, AK | Expert Orthopedic Care

Dr. W. Laurence Wickler: An Orthopedic Surgeon in Anchorage, AK

Located in the Airport Heights Community Council of Anchorage, Alaska, Dr. W. Laurence Wickler is a highly skilled orthopedic surgeon dedicated to providing expert care for patients with musculoskeletal conditions. To become an orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Wickler, one must undergo extensive education and training.

Education and Training

The journey to becoming an orthopedic surgeon is long and demanding, requiring a minimum of 13 years of formal education and training after high school. Here is an overview of the typical educational pathway:

• Undergraduate Education: The first step involves completing a four-year undergraduate degree. During this period, it is crucial to build a strong foundation in sciences such as biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
• Medical School: Following undergraduate studies, aspiring orthopedic surgeons must complete four years of medical school. This involves studying subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical skills. Medical students also participate in rotations to explore different medical specialties.
• Residency Training: After medical school, orthopedic surgeons must complete a specialized residency program, which typically lasts five to six years. During this intensive period, residents gain hands-on training, participate in surgical procedures, and develop expertise in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions.
• Fellowship: Many orthopedic surgeons choose to further their expertise by undertaking additional fellowship training in a specific subspecialty, such as sports medicine or pediatric orthopedics. Fellowships usually last one to two years and provide specialized training and hands-on experience.
• Board Certification: Finally, orthopedic surgeons must attain board certification from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS). This involves passing rigorous written and oral examinations that assess their knowledge, clinical judgment, and surgical proficiency.

Skills and Competencies

Orthopedic surgeons like Dr. Wickler possess a wide range of skills and competencies, including:

• Surgical Proficiency: The ability to perform complex surgical procedures with precision and skill.
• Diagnostic Skills: The capability to diagnose musculoskeletal conditions accurately through physical examinations and interpretation of medical tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs.
• Patient Communication: Effective communication skills to explain diagnoses, treatment options, and post-operative care to patients.
• Continuous Learning: A commitment to ongoing education to stay updated with the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and treatments.

Areas of Specialization

Orthopedic surgeons can specialize in various areas, including:

• Sports Medicine: Focusing on injuries related to sports and physical activities.
• Pediatric Orthopedics: Specializing in musculoskeletal conditions affecting children.
• Adult Reconstructive Orthopedics: Dealing with joint replacements and other reconstructive surgeries.
• Foot and Ankle Orthopedics: Concentrating on conditions affecting the feet and ankles.
• Hand Surgery: Specializing in surgical procedures for the hands and wrists.
• Musculoskeletal Oncology: Treating bone and soft tissue tumors.
• Spine Surgery: Focusing on conditions affecting the spine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an orthopedic surgeon do?

An orthopedic surgeon specializes in treating diseases, disorders, and traumatic injuries affecting the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. They diagnose conditions, perform surgeries, and order and interpret medical tests.

How long does it take to become an orthopedic surgeon?

Becoming an orthopedic surgeon typically requires 13 years of formal education and training after high school, including four years of undergraduate studies, four years of medical school, five to six years of residency, and optional fellowship training.

What are the common conditions treated by orthopedic surgeons?

Orthopedic surgeons treat a variety of conditions, including dislocated joints, hip and back pain, broken bones, degenerative joint changes, and arthritis.

Dr. W. Laurence Wickler, with his extensive education and specialized training, is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care for patients in the Airport Heights Community Council and beyond. His dedication to staying updated with the latest in orthopedic surgery ensures that his patients receive the highest quality of care.