Advancements and Challenges in Sports Surgery An Interview with Dr. Sana Ullah

   Advancements and Challenges in Sports Surgery An Interview with Dr. Sana Ullah
03 April 2024

Dr. Sana Ullah is a highly skilled orthopaedic surgeon specializing in sports-related injuries. He completed his medical education at Khyber Medical University in Peshawar, followed by advanced training in orthopaedic surgery, including a fellowship in Knee & Shoulder Arthroscopy & Sports Surgery in Munich, Germany, and a fellowship in Sports Orthopaedics at the AO Clinic in Karachi.
With expertise in knee and shoulder arthroscopy, Dr. Ullah excels in procedures such as ACL/PCL/MCL/PLC reconstruction, meniscal repair, and arthroscopic shoulder stabilization. He is also proficient in various orthopaedic surgeries, including open reduction and internal fixation for fractures.


Dr. Sana's dedication to his field and compassionate approach to patient care have made him a trusted specialist in orthopaedic surgery, helping individuals overcome sports-related injuries and regain mobility and function. In today's interview, we will discuss sports injuries and Dr. Sana Ullah's provision of top-notch orthopaedic services at RMI.


Q: What is sports surgery, and how is it different from other surgical fields?
A: Sports surgery, or sports medicine surgery, focuses on treating injuries and conditions caused by physical activity and athletics. It differs from general surgery by concentrating specifically on issues common among athletes, like ligament tears, muscle injuries, and joint problems.

 

Q: What are some common sports injuries that might require surgery?
A: Several sports injuries often necessitate surgery, including ACL tears, meniscus injuries, rotator cuff tears, tendinitis, fractures, and dislocations. These injuries often arise from the demanding nature of athletic activities, resulting from both trauma and overuse.

 

Q: How do you decide between surgery and non-surgical treatments?
A: The decision depends on several factors, including the type and severity of the injury, the athlete's overall health, and the expected outcomes of non-surgical treatments. A thorough evaluation, including imaging tests and physical examinations, is crucial for making this call.

 

Q: What recent advancements have impacted sports surgery?
A: Minimally invasive techniques like arthroscopy, with smaller incisions and sometimes robotic assistance, improve precision, recovery, and minimize tissue damage. Regenerative medicine,
using the body's natural healing power, offers alternatives through PRP therapy and stem cell treatments.

 

Q: How important is rehabilitation after surgery, and what does it typically involve?
A: Rehabilitation is essential for successful outcomes. Personalized programs with specific exercises and therapies are designed to restore strength, flexibility, and function, ensuring a safe and effective return to athletic activities.

 

Q: How can athletes minimize the risk of injuries that might require surgery?
A: Athletes can significantly reduce their risk by:
· Implementing proper warm-up and cool-down routines
· Maintaining optimal conditioning through strength training
· Utilizing appropriate protective gear
· Following a well-balanced training regimen
· Scheduling regular check-ups with sports medicine professionals

 

Q: What are the unique challenges of sports surgery compared to other specialties?
A: Sports surgery emphasizes not only restoring function but also optimizing athletic performance. Precision is paramount, and collaboration with rehabilitation specialists and athletic trainers ensures a comprehensive approach to recovery.

 

Q: How important is teamwork in sports surgery?
A: Teamwork is fundamental. Collaboration with physiotherapists, athletic trainers, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals fosters a comprehensive approach to an athlete's care, enhancing communication and facilitating a swifter recovery process.