Hand Surgery
At Weill Cornell Medicine, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care to the hand, wrist, finger, and forearm. These conditions are often caused by arthritis; fractures and dislocations of the wrist and hand; lacerations of tendons, nerves, and arteries; and acquired conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, hand arthritis, and other nerve compression disorders of the upper extremities.
The hands, wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder are critical to nearly every activity of daily living. When injury or disease of the bones, nerves, joints, and muscles threatens their functioning, overall quality of life is at risk as well.
Beginning with the initial evaluation, we take the time to deeply understand your unique concerns and needs. We work with you to explore the options available to you and will discuss any potential risks as well as the results you can expect.
When Surgery is necessary, our compassionate plastic surgeons use the latest and most sophisticated techniques are used. We ensure that our patients are well informed about the procedures available, feel empowered, and have the opportunity to discuss questions with any member of our team.
Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine for Hand Surgery?
Exemplary surgeons: Our patients select Weill Cornell Medicine because our surgeons are leaders in plastic and reconstructive surgery and our care team is equipped to promote comfort throughout the process. Our compassionate surgeons are highly skilled in performing the most advanced surgical options. Weill Cornell Medicine partners with NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S.
Personalized care: All surgical treatments are designed to meet your individual needs and aesthetic wishes. Our plastic and reconstructive surgeons are highly skilled and able to help you achieve the natural appearance you want. Our team helps patients of all races, ethnicities, genders, and gender identities enjoy their unique appearance with greater confidence.
Focus on your comfort: Our team prioritizes your comfort at every step in the process. Before your surgery, you will have time to ask your doctor questions so that you feel comfortable with the procedure. In state-of-the-art surgical suites, our surgeons use the latest anesthetics and medications that help you recover more quickly and heal faster. After the surgery, our care team will manage your pain with medication and teach you how to care for yourself as you heal and recover.
What are the different types of hand surgery?
Many different types of surgeries can be performed on the hand. It depends on the underlying cause of the problem. These procedures include:
Open Reduction and Internal Fixation: This technique may be used when there is a fracture in part of the wrist or hand. This type of surgery attempts to realign the fractured bone and then immobilize the area during the healing phase.
Tendon repairs: Tendons are the fibers that attach muscle to bone. Repair of tendons remains a surgical challenge because of the structure of the tendon. Tendon injuries can occur due to infection, trauma, or spontaneous rupture. These injuries can be addressed via surgery.
Nerve repairs: There are three main nerves that innervate the hand, including the ulnar nerve, the median nerve, and the radial nerve. Damage to these nerves from injury may result in decreased ability to move the hand and experience feeling. Nerve injuries should be addressed as soon as possible by a hand surgeon.
Surgical drainage and/or debridement: Our hands are constantly at risk for injury and infection. Infections of the hand are a common reason people seek treatment. The treatment for infections to the hand may include rest, use of heat, elevation, antibiotics, and surgery. Surgical drainage may be used if there is an abscess in the hand to help remove the collection of pus. Debridement, or cleansing of a wound to prevent further infection and to help promote healing, may be used if the infection or wound is severe.
Nerve Compression Surgery: The ulnar nerve and median nerve can become entrapped causing carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome (numbness or weakness in the hands). While conservative measures are helpful, surgery may be necessary to release the nerve.
Tissue Transfer: When there are large wounds or scars on the hand or forearm it may be necessary to transfer tissue from another part of the body. We may need to use the microscope to reattach the small nerves, arteries, and veins.
Trigger Finger Release: Trigger fingers often cause a snapping or clicking in the finger. These can be treated with a steroid injection and potentially a quick surgery.
Mass Removal: Masses and cysts are quite common in the hand and may need surgical removal especially if they are growing or painful.
Make an Appointment
We know that you want the highest level of care and safety for your surgery. Our expanded Digital Health Services and commitment to cleanliness help ensure that you can continue your care to achieve optimum health.
Whether you visit us virtually through a video visit or you see us in person, you can be assured that we will deliver the highest standards of care with compassion. Our team has taken every step to keep our facilities safe for you to continue your care. Learn more about our safety measures and the changes we’ve made to enhance your patient experience.
To request an appointment, please fill out our form. Our staff will help you find the physician who best fits your individual medical needs.
Meet Our Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons
The plastic and reconstructive surgeons at the Weill Cornell Medicine offer patients the highest level of safety and care. As a top-ranked academic medical center, you have access to our extensive network of specialists who provide seamless care throughout your treatment — to promote integrated physical and mental health.
