Choosing the right specialist is crucial when treating hand, wrist, and peripheral nerve conditions. While plastic and orthopaedic surgeons may perform hand procedures as part of their broader practice, a fellowship-trained hand surgeon has undergone additional, highly specialised training beyond standard surgical residency programs.
Specialised Training & Expertise
Unlike general plastic or orthopaedic surgeons, fellowship-trained hand surgeons complete one to two years of focused, intensive training solely on the complexities of the hand and upper extremity. This additional training covers a wide range of conditions, including:
- Microvascular Surgery: Essential for replantation and trauma cases.
- Peripheral Nerve Surgery: Treatment of nerve injuries, compression syndromes, and brachial plexus injuries.
- Complex Fractures & Trauma: Management of wrist and hand fractures, tendon injuries, and crush injuries.
- Reconstructive Surgery: Post-trauma and congenital hand deformities.
- Arthritis & Degenerative Conditions: Advanced treatment for rheumatoid and osteoarthritis of the hand and wrist..
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Hand Surgery
Hand surgery lies at the intersection of orthopaedic and plastic surgery. Fellowship-trained hand surgeons acquire expertise from all these fields, ensuring a comprehensive and integrated approach to hand and wrist conditions rather than treating them in isolation.
Plastic surgeons are well-versed in soft tissue coverage, microsurgery, congenital/paediatric hand conditions and nerve reconstruction and repair, but they may lack expertise in complex fracture management and arthritis.
Orthopaedic surgeons excel in treating arthritis, degenerative conditions, and fractures but may not have advanced nerve repair, congenital hand pathology, microsurgery, or soft tissue reconstruction training.
Hand surgery fellowship training bridges these gaps, ensuring a surgeon is proficient in soft tissue reconstruction and intricate musculoskeletal procedures.
The Best Choice for Expert Hand Care
With extensive training in microvascular surgery, nerve repair, trauma management, and reconstructive procedures, fellowship-trained hand surgeons offer the highest standard of treatment for common and complex conditions. Choosing this specialist ensures that you receive precise, comprehensive care tailored to restoring function, reducing pain, and improving your overall quality of life.
If you need help or advice, please get in touch with us. You’re in good hands.
