Overview
Traumatology
Orthopedic traumatology addresses acute and degenerative alterations of the musculoskeletal system. Prof. Colao treats road and sports injuries, complex fractures, ligament and tendon lesions, joint instabilities and malformations such as hallux valgus. The approach combines advanced imaging diagnostics with personalised therapeutic paths to shorten recovery times.
Techniques
Surgical and conservative approach
Mini-invasive arthroscopy, tendon reconstructions with direct suture or grafts, fracture reduction and synthesis, targeted rehabilitation with physiotherapists and orthopedic technicians.
Surgical technique
Arthroscopy
Knee arthroscopy
Knee arthroscopy is indicated for both traumatic and degenerative pathologies: meniscal tears, ligament ruptures, cartilage damage, femoro-patellar impingement and loose bodies. For osteochondral lesions of the patella, Prof. Colao's team uses stem cells harvested from abdominal adipose tissue or the iliac crest to create a biological coating that stimulates regenerative processes — a technique that shortens recovery and preserves long-term function.
Shoulder arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy enables rotator cuff reconstruction with significantly lower invasive impact compared to open surgery, ensuring faster recovery. For large or massive tears, however, arthroscopic anatomical exposure may be insufficient: in these cases Prof. Colao favours the open microsurgical approach, which provides complete visibility and superior results in complex tendon reconstructions.
Hip arthroscopy
Hip arthroscopy is a relatively recent technique, performed by Prof. Colao in approximately forty selected cases. Main indications include: early femoral head osteoarthritis, reactive synovitis and acetabular labrum lesions — degenerative or instability-related. In cases requiring wide exposure, open microsurgery remains the technique of choice for superior outcomes.
Ankle arthroscopy
Ankle arthroscopy is indicated for dysmorphodegenerative pathologies and joint instabilities. Among the most advanced applications: talar revascularisation for traumatic necrotic lesions and ligament reconstruction using artificial or cadaveric grafts. The arthroscopic approach reduces surgical trauma and speeds return to full function, though rigorous case selection is required.
Reconstructive surgery
Ligament reconstructions
Ankle ligament reconstruction
The most modern techniques for ankle ligament reconstruction involve reconstruction of the anterior talofibular or tibiotalar ligaments via tendon duplication plasty or arthroscopically. The technique choice depends on the extent of damage and the patient's sporting activity: in both cases the goal is to restore joint stability and prevent recurrent instability episodes.
Knee ligament reconstruction
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is performed with the endo-button technique, allowing a relatively straightforward and minimally invasive approach. Graft harvest is from the patient's semitendinosus and gracilis; in professional athletes the patellar tendon is preferred for its greater mechanical strength. The endo-button system provides high fixation reliability and early weight-bearing.
Rotator cuff reconstruction
Open microsurgical rotator cuff reconstruction is a technique refined over time by Prof. Colao's team, with consistently high results particularly in degenerative or complex traumatic lesions. Direct access provides complete anatomical visibility, essential for extensive tendon reconstructions. Blood loss is minimal and functional recovery, guided by a dedicated physiotherapy protocol, is rapid and progressive.
The information has educational value and does not replace specialist medical examination.
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