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Orthopedic Trauma and Fracture Care
From household accidents to workplace injuries, our orthopedic trauma teams are ready 24/7 in Boston and across New England to deliver urgent, coordinated care for broken bones.
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857-282-3300
8572823300
Emergency care when every second counts
At Mass General Brigham, our orthopedic trauma specialists are available in our hospital emergency rooms around the clock to treat sudden, serious injuries, whether resulting from a car accident, fall, workplace injury, or other emergency. In addition to this emergency care, our team is available throughout the week to advise patients and monitor and treat both simple and complex fractures as they heal.
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Part of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Our approach to orthopedic trauma care
We provide expert care for fractures and traumatic musculoskeletal injuries, delivering timely treatment, advanced surgical expertise, and coordinated recovery across our network of hospital and outpatient settings.
Orthopedic expertise when it matters most
Our trauma specialists treat complex injuries requiring urgent or emergency care, including fractures, joint injuries, and severe musculoskeletal trauma.
Advanced fracture and injury care
Mass General Brigham offers a full range of treatment options, from non-surgical management to advanced surgical techniques for complex and high-impact injuries.
Coordinated care across every stage of recovery
Care is coordinated from initial hospital treatment through surgery, follow-up care, and outpatient recovery to support continuity and optimal outcomes.
Recovery focused on function and mobility
Rehabilitation services are designed to support healing, restore strength and mobility, and help patients return to daily activities as safely and quickly as possible.
Frequently asked questions
What is orthopedic trauma?
Orthopedic trauma refers to serious bone, joint, and soft tissue injuries, often resulting from accidents, falls, or sudden impacts. At Mass General Brigham, our trauma specialists are available 24/7 in the emergency room for urgent injuries like broken bones and also offer weekday clinic appointments for non-emergency evaluation, follow-up care, and recovery support.
What is the difference between a broken bone and a fracture?
There is no difference between a broken bone and a fracture. “Fracture” is simply the medical term for a broken bone. Some fractures are small cracks, while others are more serious breaks, but they all fall under the same category and are treated by orthopedic specialists.
When should I go to the emergency room for a bone or joint injury?
Go to the ER right away if you have severe pain, a visible deformity, cannot move the injured area, or the injured area/limb is unable bear weight. You may have a broken bone that requires immediate evaluation and treatment. Mass General Brigham trauma surgeons are available around the clock in our emergency rooms.
What types of injuries do orthopedic trauma surgeons treat?
We treat fractures, dislocations, complex joint injuries, and complications from previous injuries. We see patients in the emergency room and also in clinic. Our specialists care for patients of all ages at hospitals across our system.
How are broken bones treated?
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the break. At Mass General Brigham, we use casting, bracing, or splinting, and when needed, surgical repair with plates, screws, or rods to realign and stabilize the bone(s).
Will my fracture require surgery?
Not every fracture requires surgery. Many can be managed with non-surgical treatments. Nonsurgical treatments can include splints, casts, or braces. If surgery is required, our orthopedic trauma surgeons use advanced techniques to promote faster recovery and restore long-term mobility.
How long does it take to recover from a fracture?
Healing time varies depending on the bone and the severity of the injury. Simple fractures may heal in weeks, while more complex fractures may take months and require rehabilitation. Our team supports you through every stage of recovery.
What specialists will be involved in my care after an accident?
Your care team may include orthopedic surgeons, trauma specialists, physician assistants, nurses, rehabilitation doctors, physical and occupational therapists, and pain management experts. At Mass General Brigham, care is fully coordinated across specialties.
Can children receive orthopedic trauma care?
Yes. Our pediatric specialists treat fractures, growth plate injuries, and other urgent conditions in children, using gentle, growth-friendly approaches that support healthy development.
What is the role of rehabilitation after trauma surgery?
Rehabilitation is an important part of recovery from injury or surgery and helps restore movement, strength, and independence. At Mass General Brigham, physical and occupational therapy are often key parts of our patient’s treatment plans.
Which hospitals are trauma centers?
Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital are Level I trauma centers. They provide the highest level of emergency orthopedic trauma care in Boston, supported by our community hospitals across New England.
Is there a trauma center near me?
Yes. Mass General Brigham offers trauma care at hospitals throughout New England, with Level I trauma centers at Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. Level 1 trauma centers are designed as hospitals able to provide the highest level of care to injured patients.
In case of emergency
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest Mass General Brigham emergency room right away. Our orthopedic trauma specialists are on call to provide immediate care for broken bones/fractures and other serious injuries.
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Orthopedic trauma conditions and treatments
Our specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of fractures and traumatic musculoskeletal injuries. Browse a selection of the conditions, treatments, and procedures available across our orthopedic and athletic care programs.
- Hip Fracture
- Fractures
- Ankle Fracture
- Shoulder Fracture
- Knee Fracture
- Broken Wrist (Wrist Fracture)
- Collarbone Fracture
- Ankle Dislocation
- Joint Dislocation
- Hip Fracture Repair
- Ankle Fracture Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
- Femur Fracture Open Reduction and Internal Fixation
- Tibia Fibula Fracture Open Reduction and Internal Fixation
- Elbow Fracture Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
- Upper Arm Fracture Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
- Bone Grafting
- Arthroscopy
- Cast Care
Orthopedic research
Our research is shaping the future of orthopedic care. We offer access to clinical trials and emerging therapies, including treatments that may not yet be widely available. Eligibility depends on a person’s diagnosis, treatment history, and more. Explore our research and clinical trials or talk with your care team to learn about available options.
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Explore our orthopedics research
Contact Orthopedics
Mass General Brigham welcomes referrals for patients with musculoskeletal injuries, including fractures, and anyone who requires follow-up after an accident or emergency room visit. Our specialists provide timely communication and collaborate closely with referring providers to ensure a seamless patient experience. To refer a patient, please submit a referral through the Mass General Brigham provider portal.
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phone
857-282-3300
8572823300
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Mass General Brigham provider portal
Contact information for international patients
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International Patient Services
Contact information for international patients