What Makes Dr. Charles Ruotolo a Top Hip Fracture Surgeon?

Dr. Charles Ruotolo is widely recognized as a top hip fracture surgeon due to his extensive orthopedic experience and advanced training in hip fracture care. Throughout his career, he has treated a wide range of complex hip fractures and injuries. As the president and founder of Total Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Dr. Charles Ruotolo leads a multidisciplinary team of orthopedic specialists who collaborate to support every stage of your care.

He also serves as Chairman of the Department of Orthopedics at Nassau University Medical Center and is an instructor for the Arthroscopy Association of North America. This experience helps him provide comprehensive hip fracture care designed to support your long-term recovery. Call 855-321-6784 to book an appointment with Dr. Charles Ruotolo.

Why Choose Dr. Charles Ruotolo for Complex Hip Fractures?

Dr. Charles Ruotolo has 20+ years of experience treating complex hip fractures, including acetabular fractures, multi-fragment injuries, displaced fractures, and hip dislocation-fracture. During the treatment, he uses advanced diagnostic and surgical techniques to restore proper bone alignment and stabilize the hip.

He may also use evidence-based pain management, including the fascia iliaca block, as part of a treatment plan for hip fracture patients. In fact, according to Charles Ruotolo et al., a preoperative fascia iliaca compartment block can significantly improve pain control after hip fracture surgery. In this study of 47 hip fracture patients, those who received a fascia iliaca block before surgery required significantly less morphine after the procedure than the control group (0.4 mg vs. 19.4 mg). They also reported a 31% increase in patient satisfaction.

Moreover, our hip orthopedist, Dr. Charles Ruotolo, utilizes advanced technologies to improve surgical precision and treatment outcomes, including:

Intraoperative Fluoroscopy Imaging

Intraoperative fluoroscopy provides real-time X-ray images during hip fracture surgery. This technology helps Dr. Charles Ruotolo to visualize the fracture and surrounding structures throughout the procedure without making additional incisions. It also confirms that bone fragments are properly aligned before fixation devices are placed.

For instance, according to the NCBI, a study of 400 patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty found that intraoperative fluoroscopy improved leg-length accuracy during surgery. The study also reported a lower risk of postoperative leg-length discrepancies greater than 5 mm, 10 mm, and 15 mm.

Computer-Assisted Preoperative Planning

Computer-assisted preoperative planning helps surgeons examine fracture patterns in detail before surgery. Using advanced imaging also helps evaluate the size, position, and orientation of fracture fragments. This detailed planning process helps surgeons determine the most effective surgical implants before the surgery, including:

• Cannulated Screws: Stabilize fractures through small incisions.
• Locking Compression Plates (LCPs): Maintain alignment in complex fractures.
• Intramedullary Nails: Support fractures in the upper femur.
• Reconstruction Plates: Restore the shape of the hip socket.
• Variable-Angle Locking Screws: Allow flexible screw placement in difficult fracture patterns.
• Hip Arthroplasty Components: Replace damaged joint structures when repair is not possible.

Surgical Retractors

Advanced surgical retractors help create a clear and controlled surgical field during hip fracture repair. These instruments gently hold back muscles, blood vessels, and surrounding soft tissues to improve visibility of the fracture site. Here are some of the main types of surgical retractors that help improve surgical access and precision:

• Hohmann Retractors: Expose bone surfaces and improve access to the hip joint.
• Cobra Retractors: Protect soft tissues while providing wide exposure around the acetabulum.
• Richardson Retractors: Hold back deeper tissues to maintain a clear surgical view.
• Meyerding Retractors: Improve visibility in deeper surgical approaches to the hip.
• Charnley Retractor Systems: Maintain consistent wound exposure throughout the procedure.
• Self-Retaining Retractors: Hold tissues in place without constant manual assistance, allowing surgeons to focus on fracture repair.

Neuromonitoring Systems (IONM)

Intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) helps track nerve function throughout complex hip fracture procedures. This technology continuously monitors electrical signals traveling through nerves that may be at risk during surgery. During the tracking, if nerve irritation or compression occurs, the system can alert the surgical team immediately. This immediate feedback allows the surgeon to adjust surgical techniques accordingly.

In one study published on PubMed, intraoperative neuromonitoring was used during 27 total hip arthroplasty procedures and detected nerve stress during the surgery. After the alerts, surgeons made immediate adjustments, and no patients developed postoperative nerve deficits.

How Can You Evaluate a Hip Surgeon’s Expertise?

To evaluate a surgeon’s expertise, you should review their board certifications, specialized training, and years of experience. You should also review their patient outcomes, professional recognitions, and research contributions. After that, confirm that they have experience with advanced hip procedures, including hip arthroscopy, ORIF, hip reconstruction, and revision surgery.

In addition, you should analyze the following factors to confirm the surgeon’s experience:

• Hospital affiliations: Hospital affiliations often indicate access to advanced facilities and multidisciplinary support for complex cases.
• Case volume: A higher number of hip procedures performed confirms hands-on surgical experience.
• Complication rates: Lower complication rates may indicate careful surgical technique and strong patient management.
• Use of advanced technology: Familiarity with imaging systems, navigation tools, and modern implants proves up-to-date surgical practice.
• Fellowship training in sports medicine: Hip surgery fellowship training indicates advanced expertise beyond general orthopedic residency.

In fact, a systematic review of 23 surgical studies on NCBI found that fellowship training is associated with improved patient outcomes. This analysis revealed that centers with affiliated fellowship programs had lower mortality rates (odds ratio 0.86, 95% CI 0.84–0.88) compared with centers without such programs. It also reported lower complication rates at fellowship centers (odds ratio 0.90, 95% CI 0.78–1.02).

What Experience Does Dr. Charles Ruotolo Have?

Dr. Charles Ruotolo has more than 25 years of experience treating orthopedic injuries and conditions, including complex hip fractures. He received his medical degree from New York Medical College School of Medicine in 1995. Then, he completed his orthopedic surgery residency at SUNY Stony Brook in 2000.

After residency, Dr. Charles Ruotolo underwent fellowship training in sports medicine and shoulder surgery at the Sports Clinic in Laguna Hills, California. This fellowship provided extensive training in arthroscopic techniques, minimally invasive surgery, and complex orthopedic reconstruction. In addition to his clinical experience, he is a fellow of prominent orthopedic and sports medicine organizations.

He is also the Program Director for the Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program at NUMC. Similarly, he is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery at the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. Other than that, Dr. Charles Ruotolo has been recognized as a Newsday Top Doctor and a Castle Connolly Top Doctor. Moreover, he has published multiple peer-reviewed articles in leading medical journals, including:

• Arthroscopy Journal
• Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
• Journal of Orthopedic Trauma
• National Center for Biotechnology Information
• Journal of Orthopedic Reviews (2022 — Pharmacologic Enhancement of Rotator Cuff Repair)

How Does Dr. Charles Ruotolo Personalize Treatment?

Our board-certified hip surgeon, Dr. Charles Ruotolo, carefully evaluates your injury pattern, overall health, and daily activity needs to personalize your treatment. He begins with a detailed clinical assessment and reviews advanced imaging to fully understand the severity, type, and stability of your hip condition. He also considers factors such as age, bone quality, medical history, and functional goals before planning treatment.

Moreover, to determine the most appropriate treatment plan, he may ask the following questions during your initial consultation:

• When did your hip pain begin?
• How did the injury occur?
• Can you put weight on the affected leg?
• Do you experience pain while walking or standing?
• Have you noticed swelling, bruising, or stiffness around the hip?
• Does the pain radiate to your groin, thigh, or knee?
• Have you had a previous hip injury or surgery?
• Do you have osteoporosis or any other bone-related condition?

Based on this assessment, if your fracture or condition is minor, he may recommend non-surgical options, such as activity modification and NSAIDs, to manage hip fracture symptoms. However, if your fracture is unstable or involves significant joint damage, he will recommend surgery to restore hip function.

After the treatment, our team at Total Orthopedics and Sports Medicine closely monitors your progress and adjusts your recovery plan as needed. This comprehensive approach helps determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your condition and recovery goals. Call 855-321-6784 to explore your treatment options.

Can Early Treatment Improve Hip Fracture Recovery?

Yes, prompt medical treatment after a hip fracture can support better recovery outcomes. Early evaluation allows your healthcare providers to identify the type and severity of the fracture and begin the most appropriate treatment as soon as possible. This timely intervention can help stabilize the injury, alleviate pain, and reduce the risk of permanent joint damage.

Early treatment also improves healing, helping you regain mobility and better functional outcomes. Similarly, early orthopedic care may lower the risk of post-fracture complications such as:

• Blood clots caused by prolonged immobility.
• Muscle weakness resulting from reduced movement and activity.
• Joint stiffness that can limit hip mobility.
• Fracture displacement that may worsen without timely stabilization.
• Pressure ulcers (bedsores) after extended bed rest.
• Pneumonia and other respiratory complications related to decreased mobility.
• Loss of independence due to delayed recovery and functional decline.

What Types of Hip Fractures Does Dr. Charles Ruotolo Treat?

Our hip surgeon, Dr. Charles Ruotolo, treats femoral neck fractures, intertrochanteric fractures, subtrochanteric fractures, and acetabular fractures. He can also manage displaced fractures, comminuted fractures, periprosthetic fractures, osteoporotic fractures, and other traumatic hip injuries. Here are some additional hip fractures that our orthopedic surgeon can treat effectively:

• Hip stress fractures: Small cracks in the femoral neck or surrounding hip bones that often develop from repetitive stress or overuse.
• Insufficiency fractures: Fractures that occur when weakened bone breaks under normal daily activities.
• Pathologic hip fractures: Fractures caused by underlying bone conditions, such as tumors, metastatic disease, or other disorders that weaken the bone.
• Hip fracture-dislocations: Complex injuries involving both a hip fracture and dislocation of the hip joint.
• Pelvic ring fractures involving the hip region: Fractures affecting the pelvic bones near the hip joint that may impact stability and mobility.
• Femoral head fractures: Fractures involving the ball-shaped upper portion of the femur that forms part of the hip joint.
• Greater trochanter fractures: Affect the bony prominence on the upper femur, where important hip muscles attach.

Moreover, to make your hip fracture treatment experience easier, our team accepts a wide range of insurance plans and offers transparent self-pay options for patients without coverage. Our staff also helps you understand your benefits, referrals, and out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins. Other than that, we handle the necessary insurance paperwork and authorizations, allowing you to focus on your recovery with peace of mind. Call 855-321-6784 to book an appointment with our best orthopedist.

Why Do Older Adults Require Specialized Hip Fracture Care?

Older adults often require specialized hip fracture care because age-related changes in bone strength, mobility, and overall health can affect both treatment and recovery. For instance, many older patients have osteoporosis or other medical conditions that increase fracture risk and complicate the healing process.

Similarly, older adults often face a higher risk of complications after a hip fracture due to underlying health conditions, such as:

• Diabetes: Slow wound healing and recovery.
• Heart Disease: May increase surgical and postoperative risks.
• Chronic Kidney Disease: Can affect bone health and fracture healing.
• Arthritis: May limit mobility and complicate rehabilitation.
• Parkinson’s Disease: Increases fall risk and affects mobility.
• Stroke-Related Disabilities: May impair balance, strength, and coordination.
• Vitamin D Deficiency: Can reduce bone strength and healing capacity.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: May affect sensation, balance, and walking ability.

These underlying medical conditions can increase the risk of complications, delay recovery, and complicate treatment planning. They may also affect bone healing, mobility, balance, and a patient’s ability to participate in recovery exercises. As a result, older adults often require specialized hip fracture care that addresses both the fracture and their overall health needs.

What Surgical Techniques Does Our Surgeon Use?

At Total Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, our hip surgeon, Dr. Charles Ruotolo, offers open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and hip arthroscopy after a hip fracture. He may also recommend a partial hip replacement (Hemiarthroplasty) or a total hip replacement to restore joint function and improve mobility. Here’s how these surgical techniques help stabilize fractured bones, repair damaged joint structures, and support long-term function:

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)

ORIF helps restore the normal position of fractured bones and stabilize them during healing. During the procedure, surgeons first reposition the fractured bone fragments into their proper alignment. Then, they secure the bones using plates, screws, rods, or other fixation devices. These implants hold the fracture in place while the bone heals.

Hip Arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to evaluate and treat certain hip joint injuries. During this surgery, the hip specialists make small incisions and insert a thin camera called an arthroscope into the joint. This camera provides a detailed view of the cartilage, labrum, and other internal structures. Then, the surgeon uses specialized instruments to repair or remove damaged tissue.

Once the damaged tissues are removed, you may experience improved hip movement, reduced joint pain during daily activities, including:

• Walking for longer distances
• Getting in and out of a car
• Sitting for extended periods
• Bending, squatting, and lifting objects
• Participating in sports and recreational activities

In fact, according to a case study published by the NCBI, hip arthroscopy helped treat a 45-year-old patient with a traumatic hip dislocation and acetabular fracture. During the procedure, surgeons used an arthroscope to examine the joint. They identified and removed loose osteochondral fragments. They also repaired a torn labrum that contributed to the patient’s symptoms. At final follow-up, the patient reported no pain and no limitations in hip movement.

Partial Hip Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty)

Partial hip replacement replaces the damaged femoral head while preserving the natural hip socket. In this procedure, surgeons remove the fractured portion of the upper femur. After that, they insert a prosthetic femoral component to restore the ball portion of the joint. This implant allows your hip to move more smoothly after surgery.

Total Hip Replacement

Total hip replacement replaces both the femoral head and the hip socket with artificial components. During the surgery, surgeons remove the damaged portions of the joint. Then, they position prosthetic implants designed to replicate normal hip movement. These artificial components create a new joint surface that supports mobility and stability. However, surgeons may only recommend this procedure in severe cases.

Can a Hip Fracture Be Repaired Without a Replacement?

Yes, many hip fractures can be repaired without a hip replacement, depending on the fracture type, location, severity, and bone quality. In these cases, surgeons use basic fracture repair techniques to preserve the natural hip joint while restoring bone alignment and stability. Here are some of the common hip repairing procedures that do not involve joint replacement:

• Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
• Percutaneous Screw Fixation
• Intramedullary Nailing
• Locking Plate Fixation
• Cannulated Screw Fixation
• Acetabular Fracture Reconstruction

How Does Dr. Charles Ruotolo Coordinate With Other Specialists?

Our hip specialist, Dr. Charles Ruotolo, works closely with a multidisciplinary team to support every stage of your hip fracture treatment and recovery. Depending on your condition, he may coordinate with primary care physicians to manage underlying health conditions that could affect surgery or healing. He may also collaborate with anesthesiologists to design an appropriate surgical plan.

In some cases, he works with radiologists to review diagnostic imaging and understand the extent of your fracture before treatment begins. After surgery, he may coordinate with pain management specialists to help optimize postoperative comfort and mobility. He may also work with endocrinologists to address osteoporosis or other bone health conditions that can affect fracture healing. This multidisciplinary care approach helps address the orthopedic, medical, and pain-related factors that can affect your hip fracture recovery.

In fact, a co-authored study by Dr. Charles Ruotolo found that a multidisciplinary hip fracture patient care pathway significantly improved outcomes in elderly patients. After implementation of the multidisciplinary care pathway, in-hospital complications decreased from 30.0% to 9.95%. Emergency room stays also decreased from 6.78 hours to 3.76 hours. In addition, the average hospital stay dropped from 7.44 days to 5.03 days.

Why Is Follow-Up Care Essential for Long-Term Recovery?

Follow-up care helps our surgeon monitor your healing progress, assess hip function, and identify potential complications before they worsen. During follow-up visits, our surgeon evaluates your fracture healing, bone alignment, pain levels, range of motion, and overall mobility. He may also review follow-up imaging to confirm that the bone is healing properly and that all surgical implants are stable. Moreover, if recovery is not progressing as expected, he can adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Get Personalized Hip Fracture Treatment From Dr. Charles Ruotolo In Long Island!

After a hip fracture, you may struggle to find an experienced and board-certified hip surgeon, which can delay timely treatment. You may also feel uncertain about which treatment option is right for your condition, especially when dealing with pain, mobility limitations, and concerns about long-term recovery.

At Total Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, our board-certified hip specialist, Dr. Charles Ruotolo, provides personalized hip fracture care based on your injury pattern and recovery goals. From diagnosis to follow-up care, our team is committed to helping you receive the treatment you need. Call us today at 855-321-6784 or visit our prestigious sports clinic in Syosset, Massapequa, East Meadow, Deer Park, or Commack for a customized treatment plan.

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