Dr. Matthew Alexander Getzlaf – Orthopedic Surgeon | Canmore, AB

Dr. Matthew Alexander Getzlaf is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in Canmore, AB, Dr. Getzlaf is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Getzlaf is licensed by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in AB.

Dr. Getzlaf 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. Matthew Alexander Getzlaf earned a Medical Degree (MD or equivalent) from University Of Saskatchewan, graduating in 2019. Subsequently, Dr. Getzlaf completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Getzlaf brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Getzlaf's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Getzlaf 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. Getzlaf's surgical practice philosophy include: a focus on restoring function and mobility, aiming to help patients return to their desired activities as safely and quickly as possible; exploring non-operative treatments thoroughly before considering surgery, when appropriate; a patient-centered approach, ensuring that treatment decisions are made collaboratively with the patient's goals and lifestyle in mind. Dr. Getzlaf provides consultations in English.

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

Traumatic Injuries

• 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).

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis - Surgical Debridement): Surgical debridement and management of bone infections, often in conjunction with long-term antibiotic therapy.
• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Surgical correction of fractures that have failed to heal (nonunion) or have healed in an incorrect position (malunion).

Sports Injuries

• Tendon Injuries (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Biceps Tendon Rupture): Surgical and non-surgical management of acute tendon ruptures and chronic tendinopathies.
• Meniscus Tears: Treating a common knee injury that can cause pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms.
• Shoulder Instability and Dislocations: Treating recurrent shoulder dislocations and instability, often involving arthroscopic repair of the labrum (Bankart repair) or other stabilizing procedures.
• Ligament Tears (e.g., ACL, MCL, Rotator Cuff): Arthroscopic and open surgical techniques for ligament repair and reconstruction.

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. Getzlaf, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.

• Hip Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Surgical reconstruction of the hip joint, including total hip arthroplasty and hemiarthroplasty, for conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or hip fractures.
• Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Performing total shoulder arthroplasty and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for conditions like osteoarthritis, rotator cuff tear arthropathy, and complex fractures.
• Fracture Management (Surgical & Non-Surgical): Managing all types of fractures, from simple to complex, ensuring proper alignment and stability.
• Complex Fracture and Trauma Surgery: Specialized surgical treatment for severe fractures, multiple injuries, pelvic and acetabular fractures, and post-traumatic complications like nonunions or malunions.
• Non-Operative Orthopedic Care: Providing conservative treatment options for musculoskeletal conditions, including medication management, therapeutic injections, bracing, casting, and referrals for physiotherapy.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Getzlaf. 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. Matthew Alexander Getzlaf adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in AB and the standards of The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

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

• The path to improved musculoskeletal wellness, especially when facing chronic pain in a joint that hasn't responded to other treatments, involves working systematically towards a well-functioning joint replacement that allows for better movement and less pain. Dr. Getzlaf expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including being able to sit comfortably for extended periods (e.g., for work or travel).
• For patients where a recent ankle sprain that isn't getting better is a primary concern, Dr. Getzlaf focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in improved mobility and ability to walk, climb stairs, or move more freely. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully participating in family vacations and outings that involve walking.
• Understanding the frustration chronic low back pain that shoots down their leg can cause, Dr. Getzlaf tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve improved hand or foot function for daily activities, allowing for renewed participation in activities like kneeling down or squatting without severe pain (for knee/hip issues).

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

Dr. Getzlaf's practice, an orthopedic clinic in Canmore, is situated in a central location within the Canmore neighborhood of Canmore. The clinic is conveniently located near local healthcare facilities and community services and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Patient parking, including accessible spots, is typically available.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Getzlaf do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Getzlaf 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.

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

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Getzlaf 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. Getzlaf will determine the most appropriate treatment to ensure the bone heals correctly and function is restored.

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

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. Getzlaf will discuss the expected recovery timeline for a specific procedure during the pre-operative consultation.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Getzlaf covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP))?

Most physician consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Getzlaf are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB, 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 can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Getzlaf 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. Getzlaf 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. Getzlaf 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.

213-300 Old Canmore Rd
Canmore, AB, T1W 0L5

Phone: (403) 760-2897

Dr. Matthew Alexander Getzlaf is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in AB, regulated by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).

License Number: 035278

Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=103e1063-6415-4a03-80ad-c61bd4350285&i=511

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Getzlaf. Dr. Getzlaf 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.