The field of hand surgery deals with both surgical and non-surgical treatment of conditions and problems that may take place in the hand or upper extremity (commonly from the tip of the hand to the shoulder). Orthopedic surgeons are trained to reconstruct all aspects to salvage the appendage: tendons, muscle, bone. Orthopedic surgeons are particularly well suited to handle complex fractures of the hand and injuries to the carpal bones that alter the mechanics of the wrist. Hand surgeons perform a wide variety of operations such as fracture repairs, releases, transfer and repairs of tendons and reconstruction of injuries, rheumatoid deformities and congenital defects.

The following conditions can be indications for hand surgery:

• Hand injuries
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Carpometacarpal bossing
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Dupuytren's contracture
• Congenital defects

Last Updated: 7/8/2009