Upper extremity specialists are orthopedic surgeons who focus exclusively on conditions affecting the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow. These fellowship-trained surgeons combine expertise in microsurgery, arthroscopy, joint replacement, and trauma care for the upper limb. In Alaska, upper extremity specialists are essential for treating injuries from the state's active outdoor culture as well as workplace injuries common in the fishing, oil, and construction industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a hand surgeon and an upper extremity specialist?
The terms are often used interchangeably. Both refer to orthopedic surgeons with fellowship training in hand and upper extremity surgery, treating conditions from the fingertips through the elbow and sometimes the shoulder.