Have you ever wondered what a hand surgeon is called? It’s not just any doctor or specialist, but someone who specializes in treating disorders and injuries to the hand and upper extremities. They are known as hand surgeons and are highly skilled professionals who have undergone extensive training in surgery, microsurgery, and hand therapy.
Hand surgeons are essentially the go-to medical professionals to help you with any condition or injury related to your hands or fingers. From carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger to fractures, dislocations, and trauma, these specialists are well-equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of hand problems. They often work in collaboration with occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other healthcare providers to provide the best possible care to their patients.
Whether you’re a musician, athlete, or just someone who relies heavily on your hands for work or daily activities, hand surgeons play a crucial role in keeping your hands functional and healthy. With their extensive knowledge and expertise, they can help you overcome even the most difficult of hand problems and get back to doing the things you love. So, next time you’re facing a hand-related issue, be sure to consult with a qualified hand surgeon to help you get back on track.
Hand Surgeon Job Description
A hand surgeon is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing injuries and conditions affecting the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow. They are highly skilled in performing surgical procedures related to the hand and upper extremities.
As part of their job, hand surgeons work closely with other healthcare professionals such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, and rehabilitation specialists to develop treatment plans tailored to individual patients’ needs. They also collaborate with radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists to diagnose and manage complex conditions.
- Examining patients to diagnose hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow conditions or injuries;
- Developing treatment plans and prescribing medications;
- Performing surgical procedures such as hand reconstruction, wrist arthroscopy, and carpal tunnel release;
- Providing postoperative care and rehabilitation;
- Educating patients about injury prevention and treatment options.
Hand surgeons work in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They may also work in academic positions, teaching and researching in the field of hand surgery.
To become a hand surgeon, one must complete a medical school degree, followed by residency training in orthopedic surgery or plastic surgery, and then a fellowship in hand surgery. Hand surgeons are highly trained professionals who play a critical role in providing patients with comprehensive care for hand and upper extremity conditions and injuries.
Types of Hand Surgeries
Hand surgery is a specialized field of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of hand and upper limb disorders. Hand surgeons are highly trained medical professionals who specialize in treating conditions that affect the hands, wrists, elbows, and forearms. Depending on the type of injury or condition, there are different types of hand surgeries that may be recommended by hand surgeons.
Below are some of the most common types of hand surgeries:
- Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the wrist and hand, causing numbness, tingling, and pain. Carpal tunnel release surgery is a procedure that involves cutting the ligament that is pressing on the median nerve to relieve the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Tendon Repair Surgery: Tendons are the strong bands of tissue that attach muscle to bone. When a tendon is ruptured or torn, it can cause significant pain and mobility issues. Tendon repair surgery involves reattaching the torn tendon to the bone or surrounding tissue to restore function and reduce pain.
- Arthroplasty: Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged joint with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic. In hand surgery, arthroplasty is commonly used to treat arthritis of the thumb or fingers.
Other types of hand surgeries include joint replacement surgery, soft tissue release surgery, nerve repair surgery, and fracture repair surgery. The specific type of surgery recommended will depend on the individual’s condition and the severity of the injury or disorder.
In addition to surgery, hand surgeons may also recommend physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other non-surgical treatments to help patients recover from hand injuries and disorders. With proper treatment and rehabilitation, many patients are able to regain full function and return to their normal activities.
Treatment Planning for Hand Surgeries
The diagnosis and treatment of hand injuries and disorders must be tailored to each individual patient. When planning for hand surgery, hand surgeons take into consideration the patient’s age, overall health, and the extent of the injury or disorder.
A detailed medical history and physical examination are typically performed to assess the patient’s overall health and identify any underlying conditions that may affect the outcome of the surgery. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans may also be used to evaluate the extent of the injury or disorder.
| Examples of Imaging Tests used in Hand Surgeries | |
|---|---|
| X-rays | Used to evaluate bone fractures |
| MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) | Used to evaluate soft tissue injuries such as ligament, tendon, or nerve damage |
| CT (Computed Tomography) Scan | Used to evaluate complex fractures or joint abnormalities |
Once the diagnosis and extent of the injury or disorder have been determined, hand surgeons will work with patients to develop a treatment plan that may include surgery, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other forms of rehabilitation.
Qualifications to become a hand surgeon
Hand surgery is a highly specialized field in medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of various hand and upper extremity conditions. As such, becoming a hand surgeon requires extensive training, education, and skills. In this article, we will discuss the qualifications to become a hand surgeon.
To become a hand surgeon, one must fulfill specific requirements. These include:
- Medical Degree: An aspiring hand surgeon must have completed a Bachelor’s Degree and have attended an accredited Medical School. After completing an undergraduate program, the individual must then pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) to gain admission to the medical school.
- Residency: After completing the medical school program, a residency of 5 to 7 years in a general surgery program must be completed. This allows the aspiring hand surgeon to learn the fundamentals of surgery. After the residency, a 1-year fellowship in hand surgery is necessary to learn the specific techniques needed for treating hand and wrist conditions.
- Certification: To become a hand surgeon, an aspiring individual must attain board-certification. This is done by taking the Hand Surgery Board Exam, which is administered by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. It is a rigorous exam, and only a minuscule percentage of those who take the exam pass it.
These qualifications ensure that a hand surgeon has the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to diagnose, treat, and rehabilitate hand and upper extremities. Hand surgery is a highly specialized field requiring extensive knowledge, skills, and experience.
Once an aspiring individual has attained the qualifications mentioned above, they will be eligible to become a hand surgeon. They can then join a group or practice or start their own. Either way, they will be fulfilling a necessary role in society, restoring function and improving quality of life for people with hand and upper-extremity conditions.
Conclusion
Becoming a hand surgeon requires an extensive amount of training and education, as evidenced by the qualifications needed to become one. The requirements include a medical degree, a residency in general surgery, and a hand surgery fellowship, followed by certification. All of these qualifications will equip an aspiring hand surgeon to diagnose, treat, and rehabilitate hand and upper extremity conditions better.
Hand surgeons play a crucial role in society, restoring function and improving quality of life for people with hand and upper-extremity conditions. By attaining the necessary qualifications, an aspiring individual can become a hand surgeon and make a difference in the lives of others.
Hand surgeon salary range
Hand surgery is a highly specialized field of medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and forearm. Hand surgeons are medical professionals who use surgical and non-surgical techniques to address injuries, diseases, and abnormalities that affect the functionality of the hand. As with most medical specialties, hand surgeons earn a good salary, but how much can they expect to make?
- The average hand surgeon salary is around $464,000 per year, according to Indeed.com. This figure may vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer.
- In general, hand surgeons who work in metropolitan areas tend to earn more than those in rural areas.
- Hand surgeons who work in private practice and surgical centers may earn more than those who work in hospitals or academic settings.
It’s worth noting that hand surgery is a specialized field that requires extensive training and education beyond medical school. Hand surgeons typically complete a residency in orthopedic surgery or plastic surgery, followed by a fellowship in hand surgery. This additional training and expertise contribute to their higher earning potential in comparison to other medical professionals.
If becoming a hand surgeon interests you, you should be prepared for the financial investment involved. The cost of medical school, residency, and fellowship training can add up quickly. However, the high earning potential for hand surgeons makes it a lucrative career path worth considering for those willing to put in the time and hard work to achieve it.
| Salary Range | Lowest | Highest |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $186,000 | $254,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $333,000 | $409,000 |
| Median Salary | $460,000 | |
| 75th Percentile | $551,000 | $658,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $714,000 | $882,000 |
As you can see, the salary range for hand surgeons is quite broad, with significant variation in how much you can expect to make based on your level of experience and location. However, one thing is clear: hand surgery is a high-paying specialty that offers a great deal of financial reward to those who choose to pursue it.
Educational requirements for hand surgery
Hand surgery is a specialized field that requires extensive training and education. In order to become a hand surgeon, an individual must complete several steps.
- Undergraduate degree: A four-year undergraduate degree is required to pursue a career in hand surgery. While there is no specific major required, many hand surgeons have a degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field.
- Medical school: After completing an undergraduate degree, the next step is to attend medical school. Medical school typically takes four years, and during this time students take courses in anatomy, pharmacology, and other medical subjects.
- Residency: After graduating from medical school, students must complete a residency in orthopedic surgery or plastic surgery. This residency typically takes five years, and during this time students learn about the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and disorders.
After completing a residency, individuals can choose to specialize in hand surgery by completing a fellowship program. A fellowship program in hand surgery typically takes one year, and during this time students learn about the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of hand injuries and disorders.
It is important for hand surgeons to remain up-to-date on the latest advances in their field. Continuing education courses and workshops are available to help hand surgeons stay current with the latest techniques and technologies.
| Education Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | A four-year undergraduate degree is required to pursue a career in hand surgery. |
| Medical School | Graduation from medical school and passing the board exams is required to be a licensed doctor. |
| Residency | Completing a residency in orthopedic surgery or plastic surgery is mandatory to specialize in hand surgery |
| Fellowship Program | Completing a one-year fellowship program in hand surgery allows individuals to specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of hand injuries and disorders. |
Hand surgery is a challenging and rewarding field that requires a significant amount of education and training. Hand surgeons are highly skilled at treating hand injuries and disorders, and they play an important role in helping patients regain function and improve their quality of life.
Differences between hand and plastic surgeons
While both hand and plastic surgeons deal with the reconstruction and repair of body parts, there are some key differences between the two specialties. Here are six important distinctions:
- Scope of practice: Hand surgery focuses specifically on the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow, while plastic surgery covers a broader range of body parts beyond the extremities.
- Training: Hand surgeons typically complete a full orthopedic surgery residency and then obtain additional specialized training in hand surgery, while plastic surgeons typically complete a residency in general surgery followed by a plastic surgery fellowship.
- Types of procedures: Hand surgeons primarily perform procedures to treat conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, fractures, and tendon injuries, while plastic surgeons focus on cosmetic procedures such as breast augmentation, rhinoplasty, and facelifts.
- Approaches to surgery: Hand surgeons often employ minimally invasive techniques such as arthroscopy to avoid the need for large incisions, while plastic surgeons may use techniques such as liposuction to remove excess fat.
- Relationship with patients: Hand surgery patients are often referred by other physicians, and hand surgeons tend to have ongoing relationships with their patients as they manage ongoing conditions or injuries. Plastic surgery patients often seek out procedures on their own, and the surgeon-patient relationship may be more focused on achieving a specific aesthetic outcome.
- Patient demographics: Hand surgery patients tend to be a broader range of ages and genders, including many who have experienced traumatic injuries or whose hand function has been affected by underlying medical conditions. Plastic surgery patients are more likely to be women seeking cosmetic procedures.
Risks involved in hand surgeries
As with any type of surgery, hand surgeries also come with risks. The severity of the risks can vary depending on the type of surgery, the patient’s age, overall health condition, and the surgeon’s expertise. Here are some of the risks involved in hand surgeries:
- Bleeding: Excessive bleeding can occur during or after the surgery, resulting in the need for additional procedures or blood transfusions.
- Infection: Hand surgery involves incisions and exposure of tissues, which increases the risk of infection. Patients may be given antibiotics to minimize the risk.
- Nerve damage: Hand surgery can involve working near or cutting through nerves, which can cause temporary or permanent numbness or weakness in the hand or fingers.
Other possible risks include:
- Difficulty moving the hand or fingers
- Stiffness
- Restricted range of motion
- Loss of grip strength
While rare, complications may also occur during anesthesia administration, such as adverse reactions or complications in breathing. Patients are advised to discuss their medical history and medications with their surgeon and anesthesiologist before the surgery.
Recovery period
The recovery period after hand surgery varies depending on the type of procedure and a patient’s individual response. Some patients can resume light activity within a few days, while others may require several weeks of rest and hand therapy to regain strength and mobility. Patients are typically advised to avoid heavy lifting and excessive activity during the recovery period, as these actions can interfere with the healing process.
Minimizing risks
To minimize the risks involved in hand surgery, patients should be open and honest with their surgeon about their medical history, medications, and any concerns they may have. Patients should also follow their surgeon’s pre- and post-operative instructions carefully, including any medication schedules and wound care instructions. Wearing protective gear or devices like splints or casts can also aid in minimizing the risks of complications and promote a faster recovery.
| Type of Hand Surgery | Possible Complications |
|---|---|
| Carpal tunnel release | Bleeding, nerve damage, infection, wrist weakness, complex regional pain syndrome |
| Trigger finger release | Bleeding, infection, nerve injury, injury to the digital artery, stiffness |
| Tendon repair | Infection, stiffness, rupture, failure of repair, tendon adherence, nerve damage |
Patients can also consider seeking a second opinion, researching their surgeon’s experience and credentials, and preparing themselves mentally and emotionally for the surgery and recovery process. By taking these precautions, patients can increase their chances of successful outcomes and minimize the risks of complications.
What is a Hand Surgeon Called?
Here are some frequently asked questions about what is a hand surgeon called, in a language that’s easy to understand:
Q: What is a hand surgeon called?
A: A hand surgeon is also called an orthopedic hand surgeon.
Q: What does an orthopedic hand surgeon do?
A: An orthopedic hand surgeon specializes in treating injuries and disorders of the hand, wrist, and forearm.
Q: What kind of training do hand surgeons have?
A: Hand surgeons complete a rigorous training program that includes medical school, residency, and a fellowship in hand surgery.
Q: When should I see a hand surgeon?
A: You should see a hand surgeon if you have a problem with your hand or wrist that affects your ability to perform daily tasks, work, or play sports.
Q: Do hand surgeons only perform surgery?
A: No, hand surgeons don’t only perform surgery. They also diagnose, treat, and manage conditions and injuries of the hand and wrist that can be treated without surgery.
Q: Can a hand surgeon treat carpal tunnel syndrome?
A: Yes, hand surgeons specialize in treating carpal tunnel syndrome, which is a common condition that causes numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand.
Q: What should I expect during my first visit to a hand surgeon?
A: During your first visit to a hand surgeon, they will evaluate your medical history, perform a physical examination, and order diagnostic tests if necessary. They will then develop a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs.
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