Shoulder, Elbow & Trauma Specialist

Dr Matthew Donaldson is an Australian and internationally trained Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in shoulder and elbow surgery and orthopaedic trauma.  He treats patients with acute injuries and chronic conditions, providing care from initial assessment and diagnosis through to treatment, surgery where required and recovery.

Dr Donaldson is committed to providing considered, evidence-based care tailored to each patient.  He takes the time to explain the diagnosis, available treatment options and expected recovery, helping patients make informed decisions about their care.  His approach combines specialist surgical expertise with clear communication and a focus on helping patients regain function and return to the activities that matter to them.

Training and Fellowships

Dr Donaldson completed his medical degree at The University of Sydney before undertaking specialist orthopaedic training through the Australian Orthopaedic Association and the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

Following his specialist training in Australia, Dr Donaldson undertook international fellowship training in Lyon, France, and Cambridge, United Kingdom, with particular focus on advanced shoulder and elbow surgery.  This international experience compliments his extensive training in orthopaedic trauma and the management of both routine and complex upper-limb conditions.

Appointments

Dr Donaldson is a Visiting Medical Officer (Specialist) at John Hunter Hospital and Belmont Hospital in Newcastle.

His previous specialist appointments include St George, Liverpool and Fairfield Hospitals and during this time has also covered regional locum work at Tamworth and Armidale.

Throughout his orthopaedic training, Dr Donaldson gained broad experience across major metropolitan and regional centres in NSW and the ACT, including Westmead Children's Hospital, Royal North Shore Hospital, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Dubbo, Orange and Canberra.

Areas of Expertise

Dr Donaldson specialises in the assessment and treatment of shoulder and elbow conditions and orthopaedic trauma.  His areas of expertise include:

• Shoulder:  rotator cuff & shoulder impingement, shoulder instability (dislocations), arthritis and shoulder replacement.

• Elbow:  elbow instabilities, arthritis and tendon injuries.

• Orthopaedic trauma:  fractures (eg clavicle fractures) and sternoclavicular injuries.

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