Approximately two thirds of trauma patients admitted to the San Francisco General Hospital (SFGH) have musculoskeletal injuries. The goal of a well-organized trauma system is to ensure that each injured patient is delivered promptly and safely to a hospital that is capable of providing optimal, timely care for all injuries.
In trauma centers throughout North America, the definitive musculoskeletal care providers are orthopaedic surgeons. These highly trained physicians have the necessary knowledge and skills for treating patients with fractures, dislocations, and injuries of ligaments, muscles, tendons, and cartilage.