Share

Procedures and Treatments

Conditions Treated by our Hand Specialists

  • Acute injury (fractures or lacerations)
  • Reconstruction of old injuries
  • Congenital problems
  • Arthritis and osteoarthritis
  • Infection
  • Growths or tumors (such as Dupuytren's disease)
  • Nerve compression (such as carpal tunnel)
  • Overuse syndrome
  • Tendon inflammation
  • Use of microsurgery for:
    • Nerve repair
    • Replantation of amputated parts
    • Tissue transfer for bone and soft tissue defects

Hand Surgery

Hand surgery is part of the practice of orthopedic surgery, plastic surgery, and general surgery. As surgical techniques in the upper extremity become more refined and complex, specialized training in hand surgery is crucial. Our University of Vermont (UVM) Medical Group hand surgeons are fellowship-trained and board certified with a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Surgery of the Hand. As UVM faculty members, all of our surgeons are involved in research and in the education of UVM College of Medicine students and orthopedic residents. This means you receive advanced orthopedic care from surgeons specialized in hand surgery at Vermont's only academic medical center. Find a Fletcher Allen hand surgeon.

Hand Therapy

Hand therapy is a vital link in providing quality care to various hand and upper extremity patients. Patients (surgical and non-surgical) may need therapy at some point in their course of treatment. This involves an evaluation and formulation of an individual treatment plan by a therapist with specialized training in rehabilitation of the hand and upper extremity. Each therapist of our hand therapy team is an occupational or physical therapist, who has completed a minimum of five years of additional medical training experience in treating injuries of the hand, wrist, fingers, and elbow.

The individual treatment plan is routinely updated with physician input. Goals are set to address specific needs such as increased range of motion, strength, function, surgical repair and wound healing. Since patients are expected to be an active participant in hand therapy, a home program is recommended. A team effort between the patient, hand surgeon and hand therapist achieves the best results. View a list of our occupational therapists or physical therapists.

Hand Care overview