Orthopedic surgical techs specialize in assisting with procedures involving bones, joints, ligaments, and the musculoskeletal system. These surgical technologists work closely with orthopedic surgeons during procedures such as joint replacements, fracture repairs, spinal surgeries, and arthroscopic operations.
For surgical techs interested in a specialty with complex instrumentation and high procedure volume, orthopedics is one of the most common areas to develop expertise. This guide explains what orthopedic surgical techs do, the skills required for the role, and how the specialty fits into a broader surgical technology career.
An orthopedic surgical technologist performs many of the same core responsibilities as any scrub tech or operating room tech, but with specialized knowledge of orthopedic procedures and equipment.
Orthopedic surgeries often involve power tools, implants, and large instrument sets, which means preparation and organization are especially important.
Typical responsibilities include:
Because orthopedic surgeries can involve multiple implant components and instruments, scrub techs in this specialty must stay highly organized and attentive throughout the procedure.
Orthopedic surgical techs may assist with a wide range of procedures depending on the facility and the surgeon’s specialty.
Some of the most common procedures include:
Procedures such as knee and hip replacements require careful preparation of implant systems, instrumentation trays, and power equipment.
Surgical repair of broken bones may involve plates, screws, rods, and other fixation devices.
Minimally invasive procedures involving the shoulder, knee, or other joints often use cameras, fluid systems, and specialized arthroscopic instruments.
Some orthopedic surgical technologists assist with spinal procedures, which may involve navigation equipment, implants, and complex surgical setups.
Orthopedic procedures often involve specialized equipment and fast-paced surgical workflows. Because of this, scrub techs working in orthopedic operating rooms need strong technical skills and attention to detail.
Important abilities include:
Orthopedic cases often require large instrument trays and implant systems. Familiarity with orthopedic instruments and implant components is essential.
Implants and instruments must be prepared in the correct sequence. Strong setup and case organization skills help ensure efficient procedures.
Many orthopedic procedures use drills, saws, and other powered surgical tools.
Orthopedic cases often involve coordination between surgeons, nurses, vendor representatives, and other operating room staff.
Most orthopedic surgical techs begin by completing a surgical technology training program and gaining experience as a surgical technologist.
Many professionals pursue certification as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), which can strengthen job applications and demonstrate knowledge of surgical technology fundamentals.
While orthopedic specialization typically comes from on-the-job experience, some employers value scrub techs who have developed expertise with orthopedic instrumentation and implant systems.
Continuing education and exposure to orthopedic procedures during clinical training can also help surgical techs move into this specialty.
Orthopedic surgical technologists are generally part of the broader surgical technologist workforce tracked by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
According to BLS data, the median annual wage for surgical technologists was $62,830 in May 2024. Actual compensation can vary widely depending on factors such as location, employer type, experience level, and surgical specialty.
Orthopedic surgical techs who develop strong expertise with complex procedures or high-demand specialties may find additional opportunities within hospitals, specialty surgical centers, or travel assignments.
Orthopedic surgical technologists commonly work in:
Facilities that perform high volumes of orthopedic procedures often rely on surgical techs who are comfortable with specialized instrumentation and fast-paced surgical schedules.
Many surgical technologists choose to specialize in orthopedics because it offers opportunities to develop deep procedural knowledge.
Experienced orthopedic scrub techs may move into roles such as:
Building expertise in orthopedic surgery can strengthen a surgical technologist’s resume and open doors to more specialized operating room roles.
If you're interested in specializing in orthopedic surgery, gaining experience in this field can expand your operating room skills and career options.
Take a look at current orthopedic surgical tech listings and discover which facilities are hiring surgical technologists with orthopedic experience.
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