Most folks think of orthopedic surgeons as mostly concerned with broken legs and sports injuries, but this year’s winner, Dr. Evan Siegall of Chatham Orthopaedics, has a specialty beyond the stereotype.
The pediatric specialist says he sees different things in treating kids than many in his field might otherwise see.
“In pediatrics we don’t just do sports medicine or back stuff. We do a bit of everything,” says Dr. Siegall. “We tend to see more things such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, scoliosis, things of that nature. Scoliosis in particular is something I’m addressing a lot of lately.”
Being an orthopedic surgeon is demanding enough, with four years of medical school followed by a multi-year residency. But you have to take on an extra year for pediatrics.
Often, when adults go through orthopedic treatment and move into therapy, they may not go back to their specialist. Dr. Siegall says he tries to make a point to see younger patients more often
“The parents and families really want that,” he says. “They want that extra level of care and comfort, and we give it to them.”
That said, Dr. Siegall does see his share of more standard orthopedic issues, such as the ever-prevalent ACL tear.
“We treat ACLs, whether without surgery or with surgery,” he says. “As a matter of fact, I just performed an ACL surgery this morning.” — Jim Morekis
Runner-up: Jon Prather, MD
