Dr Sean Pretorius – Orthopaedic Surgeon – Brackenfell

Dr Sean Pretorius – Orthopaedic Surgeon – Brackenfell

Dr Sean Pretorius – Orthopaedic Surgeon – Brackenfell practices at Mediclinic Cape Gate, where he leads the private Upper Limb and Reconstructive Orthopaedic service. He earned his BSc from Stellenbosch University in 1988 and MBChB in 1993, subsequently completing an MMed (Orthopaedics) in 2002 and a PhD in Orthopaedic Surgery . Moreover, he undertook a specialized hand fellowship (2002–2005) under Dr Martin Wells at Panorama Hospital, mastering trauma, degenerative conditions, and reconstructive techniques.

During his tenure as Head of the Upper Limb Unit at Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Dr Pretorius developed advanced skills in shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand surgery. Consequently, he integrates 3D pre-operative planning, computer-guided osteotomies, and a fully digital workflow into complex reconstructions. Furthermore, he has contributed to international and national faculty for geriatric trauma and deformity-correction congresses. Thus, his patients benefit from evidence-based innovation paired with compassionate, patient-centred care.

Services

• Trauma Surgery: comprehensive management of acute upper and lower limb fractures, including locked plating, intramedullary nailing, and external fixation.

• Shoulder Reconstruction: arthroscopic and open rotator cuff repair, labral stabilization, and reverse shoulder arthroplasty for complex degenerative or post-traumatic cases.

• Hand & Wrist Procedures: microsurgical repair of tendon and nerve injuries, arthroplasty for arthritis, and non-union management with bone grafting.

• Elbow Care: arthroscopic debridement, ulnar nerve decompression, and complex ligament reconstruction for instability and stiffness.

• Arthroplasty: joint replacement for shoulder, elbow, and wrist, utilising custom implants and patient-specific instrumentation.

• 3D Imaging & Planning: CT-based surgical blueprints and patient-specific guides to enhance precision in deformity correction.

• Non-Union & Malunion Treatment: personalized reconstructive protocols combining osteotomy, bone transport, and biologic enhancers.

• Soft-Tissue Reconstruction: flap coverage and tissue transfers for complex post-traumatic and oncologic defects.

• Minimally Invasive Techniques: keyhole arthroscopy and endoscopic-assisted approaches to minimize scarring and pain.

• Enhanced Recovery Protocols: ERAS pathways with multimodal analgesia, early mobilization, and tailored physiotherapy.

Additional Information

Mediclinic Cape Gate offers state-of-the-art operating theatres with high-definition imaging, real-time navigation systems, and dedicated hybrid suites for endovascular support. Moreover, Dr Pretorius leads a multidisciplinary team—including anaesthetists, specialised physiotherapists, and occupational therapists—to coordinate perioperative and rehabilitative care. Consequently, patients experience streamlined pathways from initial assessment through to full recovery.

Patient experience remains at the heart of his practice. Therefore, Dr Pretorius emphasizes clear, empathetic communication, ensuring each individual understands their diagnosis, treatment options, and expected outcomes. He also conducts telemedicine follow-ups for long-term monitoring and convenience. Furthermore, he contributes to peer-reviewed research on trauma and reconstructive surgery, and regularly mentors registrars through hands-on workshops and cadaver courses. Thus, his commitment extends beyond clinical care to advancing orthopaedic standards.

Schedule a consultation today to explore how Dr Pretorius’s personalized, technology-driven approach can restore your function, alleviate pain, and help you regain confidence in your physical abilities.