Orthopaedic technologists are trained health professionals who assist orthopaedic surgeons with preventing or correcting disorders of the locomotor structures of the body, including the skeleton, muscles, joints, ligaments, and cartilage. Working in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practice offices, orthopaedic technologists play a necessary role in patient care for orthopaedic conditions and anomalies.

Orthopaedic technologists apply casts, splints, and other orthopaedic appliances to patients. Orthopaedic technologists must be knowledgeable of the various kinds of casts and splints and the proper procedures for applying and removing them.

Orthopaedic technologists must also be aware of the numerous types of casting materials and when to use each one. They must know the appropriate padding, wrapping, and molding techniques to ensure proper fit and placement of all orthopaedic devices.

Orthopaedic technologists must maintain traction configurations for injured patients. This process involves obtaining the proper traction apparatuses and applying them to patient beds and patient injuries, all while complying with physicians' orders.

Orthopaedic technologists assist orthopaedic surgeons in hospitals and outpatient settings. In addition, orthopaedic technologists, position, prepare, drape patients for surgery and assist the surgeon during the procedure.

Orthopaedic technologists perform a variety of duties, some of which are not limited to the operating room. They interview patients to obtain a complete history of their injuries and abnormalities. They conduct orthopaedic assessments of patients and relay information gathered to the attending surgeon.

In short, orthopaedic technologists assist orthopaedic surgeons and do what is necessary to ensure that patients receive comfortable and successful treatment of orthopaedic injuries.