Dr. Bryan Robert Rittenhouse – Orthopedic Surgeon | Welland, ON

Dr. Bryan Robert Rittenhouse is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in Welland, ON, Dr. Rittenhouse is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Rittenhouse is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in ON.

Dr. Rittenhouse serves patients requiring specialized orthopedic care as a certified specialist in Orthopedic Surgery, dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. The goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life through both surgical and non-surgical means.

Dr. Bryan Robert Rittenhouse earned a Medical Degree from University Of Alberta Faculty Of Medicine And Dentistry, graduating in 1978. Subsequently, Dr. Rittenhouse completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Rittenhouse brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Rittenhouse's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Rittenhouse is committed to ongoing professional development and staying at the forefront of orthopedic advancements to offer the best possible care to patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Rittenhouse's surgical practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal care; a patient-centered approach, ensuring that treatment decisions are made collaboratively with the patient's goals and lifestyle in mind. Dr. Rittenhouse provides consultations in English.

As an Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Bryan Robert Rittenhouse diagnoses and treats a wide spectrum of injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including but not limited to:

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Treating bone death caused by a loss of blood supply, commonly affecting the hip, knee, or shoulder, which can lead to joint collapse.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (Orthopedic Management): Surgical and non-surgical management of joint damage and deformities caused by rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthropathies.
• Osteoarthritis: Helping patients cope with the effects of degenerative joint disease on mobility and quality of life.

Traumatic Injuries

• Fractures (Broken Bones): Management of acute fractures of the upper extremity, lower extremity, and axial skeleton.
• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Advanced surgical management for high-energy trauma affecting the musculoskeletal system.
• Dislocations: Treatment for acute joint instability caused by traumatic displacement of articular surfaces.
• Sprains and Strains: Diagnosing and treating ligament sprains (stretching or tearing of ligaments) and muscle/tendon strains (injuries to muscles or tendons).

Sports Injuries

• Shoulder Instability and Dislocations: Treating recurrent shoulder dislocations and instability, often involving arthroscopic repair of the labrum (Bankart repair) or other stabilizing procedures.
• Tendon Injuries (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Biceps Tendon Rupture): Repairing torn tendons to restore strength and function.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan, which may be surgical or non-surgical, are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Rittenhouse, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.

• General Orthopedic Surgical Procedures: Surgical treatment for common bone, joint, and soft tissue disorders as per established orthopedic principles.
• Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation (Musculoskeletal): Utilizing advanced imaging to accurately diagnose fractures, soft tissue injuries, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal pathologies.
• Knee Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Advanced techniques to restore knee function and alleviate pain through arthroplasty.
• Total Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): Performing primary and revision hip, knee, and shoulder replacement surgeries to relieve pain and restore function in patients with advanced arthritis or joint damage.
• Comprehensive Orthopedic Consultation: Expert evaluation to diagnose injuries and disorders of the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Rittenhouse. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any procedure or treatment depends on individual assessment and referral. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation.

All surgical and non-surgical treatments by Dr. Bryan Robert Rittenhouse adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in ON and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At Dr. Bryan Robert Rittenhouse's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Rittenhouse frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients experiencing a recent ankle sprain that isn't getting better often express a desire to improve their physical function and reduce pain. At Dr. Rittenhouse's practice, a key objective is significant pain relief in their affected joint or limb, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in gardening, doing housework, or performing yard work.
• Through Dr. Rittenhouse's skilled guidance and modern surgical techniques, patients suffering from their child being born with a clubfoot or hip problems often find they can readily achieve improved hand or foot function for daily activities and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like feeling stable and balanced on their feet, reducing fear of falls.
• Are you struggling with a growth or lump on one of their bones or in their muscles? Dr. Rittenhouse partners with patients to target improved mobility and ability to walk, climb stairs, or move more freely, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as reaching overhead or behind their back comfortably (for shoulder issues) a much more achievable reality.

Your personalized treatment plan, whether surgical or non-surgical, developed in consultation with Dr. Rittenhouse, will be carefully designed to help you achieve your specific musculoskeletal goals. Dr. Rittenhouse is committed to providing expert orthopedic care to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

Dr. Rittenhouse's practice, an orthopedic clinic in Welland, is situated in the North Welland, Niagara College Area neighborhood of Welland. The clinic is conveniently located near Welland Civic Square and is accessible via Niagara Region Transit (NRT) / Welland Transit routes. Patient parking, including accessible spots, is typically available.

What is the policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations at our clinic for Dr. Rittenhouse?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 72 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Rittenhouse. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient. Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than the requested notice, or missed without any notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee. Please inquire with the clinic for the specific fee. We appreciate your cooperation.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Rittenhouse covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP))?

Most physician consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Rittenhouse are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON, provided the patient has a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging ordered is also usually covered. However, some specific items like certain braces, custom orthotics, or advanced biologic injections may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. It's always best for patients to inquire with the clinic about any potential out-of-pocket costs and to check with their private insurance, if any, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Rittenhouse do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Rittenhouse is a medical doctor (physician) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. They manage a wide range of conditions such as fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities. While they are surgeons, Orthopedic Surgeons use both surgical methods (like joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical methods (like medication, injections, bracing, or recommending physiotherapy) to treat patients. Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

What is joint replacement surgery, and when might Dr. Rittenhouse recommend it?

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is a procedure where damaged or arthritic parts of a joint (like the hip, knee, or shoulder) are removed and replaced with artificial components (prostheses) made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. Dr. Rittenhouse might recommend joint replacement if a patient has severe joint pain and loss of function, typically due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a significant injury, and non-surgical treatments (like medication, injections, physiotherapy) are no longer providing adequate relief. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

Do I typically need a referral to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Rittenhouse?

Yes, in ON, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist (e.g., sports medicine physician, rheumatologist) is generally required to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Rittenhouse for consultations and potential surgical treatments covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This referral helps ensure the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Rittenhouse has the necessary background medical information. Speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor if you believe you need an orthopedic surgical assessment.

How does Dr. Rittenhouse treat broken bones (fractures)?

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Rittenhouse are experts in treating all types of bone fractures. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, its location, and the patient's overall health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone (reduction) and then immobilizing it with a cast, splint, or brace to allow it to heal. Surgical treatment might be necessary for more complex fractures, open fractures (where the bone breaks the skin), or fractures that are unlikely to heal well with casting alone. Surgical options include internal fixation (using plates, screws, rods, or pins to hold the bone pieces together) or external fixation (using a frame outside the body connected to pins in the bone). Dr. Rittenhouse will determine the most appropriate treatment to ensure the bone heals correctly and function is restored.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Rittenhouse at the clinic?

The first visit will typically involve a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the patient's medical history, the specific problem (e.g., pain, injury, loss of function), how it started, what makes it better or worse, and its impact on daily activities and quality of life. Dr. Rittenhouse will review any previous treatments and will perform a thorough physical examination of the affected area(s), assessing range of motion, strength, stability, and tenderness. Any prior imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Rittenhouse will discuss their diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations if needed, and will outline potential treatment options, both non-surgical and surgical, working with the patient to establish goals.

How long is the recovery time after orthopedic surgery with Dr. Rittenhouse?

Recovery time after orthopedic surgery varies greatly depending on the type of surgery performed (e.g., arthroscopy vs. joint replacement vs. fracture fixation), the specific joint or bone involved, the patient's age and overall health, and their adherence to the post-operative rehabilitation plan. Some minor procedures may have a recovery of a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months for full recovery and return to all activities. Dr. Rittenhouse will discuss the expected recovery timeline for a specific procedure during the pre-operative consultation.

65 Third Street
Welland, ON, L3B 4W6

Phone: (905) 732-6111

Dr. Bryan Robert Rittenhouse is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in ON, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario).

License Number: 54993

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Rittenhouse-Bryan-Robert/0041017-54993

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Rittenhouse. Dr. Rittenhouse and the team are dedicated to providing expert orthopedic care. If you have a medical emergency, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.