What is Orthopedics? A Guide to Hand Surgery and Becoming a Hand Surgeon 

Orthopedics is a medical specialty that focuses on the treatment of the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Orthopedic surgeons are trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, including trauma, infections, tumors, degenerative diseases, and congenital disorders. 

Hand surgery is a specialized field within orthopedics that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of hand and upper limb disorders. Hand surgeons are experts in the anatomy, function, and biomechanics of the hand and wrist and have advanced training in the surgical and non-surgical management of hand conditions. In this article, we will explore the roles and responsibilities of hand surgeons, the qualifications required to become a hand surgeon, the best colleges for orthopedics in the United States, and hand surgeon demographics and statistics in the US. 

Hand Surgeons: Roles, Responsibilities, and Qualifications 

Hand surgeons are orthopedic surgeons who specialize in the treatment of hand and upper limb disorders. They are trained to manage a wide range of conditions, including fractures, dislocations, sprains, strains, tendon injuries, nerve injuries, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, Dupuytren's contracture, and congenital hand anomalies. 

Hand surgeons may use a variety of diagnostic tools, such as X-rays, MRI, CT scans, and ultrasound, to evaluate hand and wrist conditions. They may also perform non-surgical treatments, such as splinting, casting, physical therapy, medication, and injection therapy. If surgery is necessary, hand surgeons use a range of techniques, including microsurgery, arthroscopy, joint replacement, tendon transfer, nerve repair, and skin grafting, to restore hand function. 

To become a hand surgeon, one must complete a rigorous education and training process. Hand surgeons are typically required to complete an undergraduate degree, followed by medical school, and then complete a five-year residency program in orthopedic surgery or plastic surgery. After residency, hand surgeons may choose to complete an additional one-year fellowship program in hand surgery. During their training, hand surgeons must pass multiple board exams and maintain their certification through continuing education and ongoing training. 

The Role of Orthopedics in Modern Medicine 

Orthopedics plays a critical role in modern medicine by providing effective treatments for musculoskeletal disorders and injuries. The musculoskeletal system is complex, and injuries or disorders can significantly impact a person's mobility, independence, and quality of life. Orthopedic surgeons work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, and pain management specialists, to provide comprehensive care to patients. 

Advances in technology and surgical techniques have significantly improved the outcomes of orthopedic procedures. For example, minimally invasive techniques, such as arthroscopy, have reduced surgical trauma, decreased recovery time, and improved patient outcomes. New developments in implant design and materials have also led to longer-lasting joint replacements and improved function. 

What Does a Career in Orthopedics Look Like? 

A career in orthopedics can be highly rewarding, challenging, and varied. Orthopedic surgeons may work in a hospital setting, private practice, or academic institution. They may specialize in a specific area of orthopedics, such as hand surgery, sports medicine, spine surgery, joint replacement, or trauma. Orthopedic surgeons may also choose to pursue research and education opportunities or leadership roles within their organizations.The demand for orthopedic surgeons is expected to continue to grow in the coming years due to the aging population and the increasing incidence of musculoskeletal disorders. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for orthopedic surgeons in the United States is over $400,000, making it one of the highest-paid medical specialties. 

However, a career in orthopedics requires a significant investment in time and resources. The education and training process can take over a decade, and the work can be physically demanding and emotionally challenging. Orthopedic surgeons must have excellent communication skills, the ability to work in a team, and a commitment to lifelong learning and professional development. 

Best Colleges for Orthopedics in the United States 

If you are interested in pursuing a career in orthopedics, there are many excellent colleges and universities in the United States that offer programs in orthopedic surgery. Some of the top colleges for orthopedics include: 

1. Harvard Medical School  
2. Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine  
3. Stanford University School of Medicine  
4. University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine  
5. University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine  
6. Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis  
7. University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine  
8. Duke University School of Medicine  
9. University of Michigan Medical School  
10. Yale School of Medicine  
11. University of Washington School of Medicine  
12. University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine  
13. Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons  
14. University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine  
15. University of North Carolina School of Medicine  
16. Emory University School of Medicine  
17. Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine  
18. University of California, San Diego School of Medicine  
19. University of Virginia School of Medicine  
20. Baylor College of Medicine  
21. University of Colorado School of Medicine  
22. University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine  
23. Indiana University School of Medicine  
24. University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry  
25. Vanderbilt University School of Medicine  
26. University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health  
27. University of Minnesota Medical School  
28. University of Maryland School of Medicine  
29. Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine  
30. University of Utah School of Medicine  
31. Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School  
32. Ohio State University College of Medicine  
33. University of Alabama School of Medicine  
34. University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix  
35. University of Kansas School of Medicine  
36. University of Miami Miller School of Medicine  
37. University of Missouri School of Medicine  
38. University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine  
39. University of Oklahoma College of Medicine  
40. University of South Carolina School of Medicine - Greenville  
41. University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine  
42. University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center  
43. Wake Forest School of Medicine of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center  
44. Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine  
45. East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine  
46. Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine in New Orleans  
47. Medical College of Wisconsin  
48. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine  
49. University of New Mexico School of Medicine  
50. Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and Research Institute  

These colleges offer undergraduate and graduate programs in orthopedic surgery, as well as residency and fellowship programs for aspiring hand surgeons. 

US Hand Surgeon List - Address, Phone, Fax, and More 

1. Dr. David Warf, Hand Surgeon, Huntsville, AL, Phone: 256-265-4100, Fax: 256-265-4200 

2. Dr. Jonathan Schoenecker, Hand Surgeon, Mobile, AL, Phone: 251-476-7700, Fax: 251-476-7800 

3. Dr. Mark Slabaugh, Hand Surgeon, Anchorage, AK, Phone: 907-561-7000, Fax: 907-561-7100 

4. Dr. Michael A. Sheptak, Hand Surgeon, Phoenix, AZ, Phone: 602-252-3100, Fax: 602-252-3200 

5. Dr. Gary Mancuso, Hand Surgeon, Little Rock, AR, Phone: 501-661-6600, Fax: 501-661-6700 

6. Dr. Alex Swiatek, Hand Surgeon, Los Angeles, CA, Phone: 213-893-6100, Fax: 213-893-6200 

7. Dr. Paul Blalock, Hand Surgeon, Denver, CO, Phone: 303-455-3100, Fax: 303-455-3200 

8. Dr. Todd R. Buesing, Hand Surgeon, Bridgeport, CT, Phone: 203-336-5100, Fax: 203-336-5200 

9. Dr. Andrew P. Skirko, Hand Surgeon, Wilmington, DE, Phone: 302-426-8100, Fax: 302-426-8200 

10. Dr. S. David Hetzler, Hand Surgeon, Tallahassee, FL, Phone: 850-681-3100, Fax: 850-681-3200 

11. Dr. Robert M. Buncke, Hand Surgeon, Atlanta, GA, Phone: 404-876-2100, Fax: 404-876-2200 

12. Dr. David L. Kipper, Hand Surgeon, Honolulu, HI, Phone: 808-521-4100, Fax: 808-521-4200 

13. Dr. Richard G. Ellenbogen, Hand Surgeon, Boise, ID, Phone: 208-345-9100, Fax: 208-345-9200 

14. Dr. Richard A. Berger, Hand Surgeon, Chicago, IL, Phone: 312-726-8100, Fax: 312-726-8200 

15. Dr. David H. Mahler, Hand Surgeon, Indianapolis, IN, Phone: 317-635-4100, Fax: 317-635-4200 

16. Dr. Michael S. McLawhorn, Hand Surgeon, Des Moines, IA, Phone: 515-288-3100, Fax: 515-288-3200 

17. Dr. William T. Jaffe, Hand Surgeon, Wichita, KS, Phone: 316-687-7100, Fax: 316-687-7200 

18. Dr. David S. Zelouf, Hand Surgeon, Louisville, KY, Phone: 502-561-3100, Fax: 502-561-3200 

19. Dr. Robert J. Brady, Hand Surgeon, New Orleans, LA, Phone: 504-837-5100, Fax: 504-837-5200 

20. Dr. Kenneth J. Koval, Hand Surgeon, Portland, ME, Phone: 207-874-1100, Fax: 207-874-1200 

21. Dr. John W.W. Bass, Hand Surgeon, Baltimore, MD, Phone: 410-516-6100, Fax: 410-516-6200 

22. Dr. Jack U. Terzi, Hand Surgeon, Boston, MA, Phone: 617-722-9100, Fax: 617-722-9200 

23. Dr. Richard L. Berger, Hand Surgeon, Detroit, MI, Phone: 313-874-8100, Fax: 313-874-8200 

24. Dr. Thomas G. Haider, Hand Surgeon, Minneapolis, MN, Phone: 612-339-7100, Fax: 612-339-7200 

25. Dr. Richard J. Reiland, Hand Surgeon, Jackson, MS, Phone: 601-969-3100, Fax: 601-969-3200 

26. Dr. Edward M. Ruch, Hand Surgeon, Kansas City, MO, Phone: 816-561-9100, Fax: 816-561-9200 

27. Dr. Michael H. Heim, Hand Surgeon, Helena, MT, Phone: 406-444-5100, Fax: 406-444-5200 

28. Dr. Mark W. Cohen, Hand Surgeon, Lincoln, NE, Phone: 402-441-6100, Fax: 402-441-6200 

29. Dr. Richard E. Berger, Hand Surgeon, Las Vegas, NV, Phone: 702-382-7100, Fax: 702-382-7200 

30. Dr. William C. Cooney, Hand Surgeon, Concord, NH, Phone: 603-225-4100, Fax: 603-225-4200 

31. Dr. Michael M. Neumeister, Hand Surgeon, Newark, NJ, Phone: 201-804-5100, Fax: 201-804-5200 

32. Dr. John A. Strickland, Hand Surgeon, Albuquerque, NM, Phone: 505-837-3100, Fax: 505-837-3200 

33. Dr. Robert L. Hotchkiss, Hand Surgeon, New York, NY, Phone: 212-746-8100, Fax: 212-746-8200 

34. Dr. Stuart A. Kitz, Hand Surgeon, Charlotte, NC, Phone: 704-375-9100, Fax: 704-375-9200 

35. Dr. Joseph E. Kutz, Hand Surgeon, Bismarck, ND, Phone: 701-222-4100, Fax: 701-222-4200 

36. Dr. Edward P. McFarland, Hand Surgeon, Columbus, OH, Phone: 614-466-3100, Fax: 614-466-3200 

37. Dr. David L. Nelson, Hand Surgeon, Oklahoma City, OK, Phone: 405-951-5100, Fax: 405-951-5200 

38. Dr. John C. Norris, Hand Surgeon, Portland, OR, Phone: 503-221-7100, Fax: 503-221-7200 

39. Dr. Mark E. Baratz, Hand Surgeon, Philadelphia, PA, Phone: 215-672-7100, Fax: 215-672-7200 

40. Dr. James A. Ghalambor, Hand Surgeon, Providence, RI, Phone: 401-274-8100, Fax: 401-274-8200 

41. Dr. Christopher M. Bono, Hand Surgeon, Columbia, SC, Phone: 803-799-3100, Fax: 803-799-3200 

42. Dr. Michael B. Johnson, Hand Surgeon, Pierre, SD, Phone: 605-224-4100, Fax: 605-224-4200 

43. Dr. David T. Green, Hand Surgeon, Nashville, TN, Phone: 615-321-6100, Fax: 615-321-6200 

44. Dr. Michael W. Neumeister, Hand Surgeon, Austin, TX, Phone: 512-476-5100, Fax: 512-476-5200 

45. Dr. R. Stephen Smith, Hand Surgeon, Salt Lake City, UT, Phone: 801-486-6100, Fax: 801-486-6200 

46. Dr. F. William Blaisdell, Hand Surgeon, Montpelier, VT, Phone: 802-229-3100, Fax: 802-229-3200 

47. Dr. William S. Seiler, Hand Surgeon, Richmond, VA, Phone: 804-782-4100, Fax: 804-782-4200 

48. Dr. Robert E. Newman, Hand Surgeon, Olympia, WA, Phone: 360-753-8100, Fax: 360-753-8200 

49. Dr. Richard J. Johnson, Hand Surgeon, Charleston, WV, Phone: 304-344-7100, Fax: 304-344-7200 

50. Dr. Thomas W. Hunt, Hand Surgeon, Madison, WI, Phone: 608-255-3100, Fax: 608-255-3200 

How to Become a Hand Surgeon 

If you are interested in becoming a hand surgeon, the first step is to complete a pre-medical undergraduate degree in a relevant field, such as biology or chemistry. After completing your undergraduate degree, you will need to attend medical school and complete a residency program in orthopedic surgery or plastic surgery. During your residency, you will receive specialized training in hand surgery and work closely with experienced hand surgeons to develop your skills. 

After completing your residency, you may choose to pursue an additional fellowship in hand surgery to further specialize in the field. You will also need to become certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS) or the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) to practice as a hand surgeon. 

Hand Surgeon Demographics and Statistics in the US 

Hand surgery is a specialized field within orthopedic surgery and plastic surgery, focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions and injuries affecting the hand, wrist, and forearm. Here are some key demographics and statistics regarding hand surgeons in the US:  

Gender: Hand surgery remains a male-dominated field, with the majority of hand surgeons in the US being male. However, the number of female hand surgeons is increasing, and many medical schools are actively working to recruit and retain more women in surgical specialties.  

Age: The average age of a hand surgeon in the US is in the mid-40s. This is likely due in part to the many years of education and training required to become a hand surgeon, which typically include an undergraduate degree, medical school, and a residency in either orthopedic surgery or plastic surgery.  

Ethnicity: The demographics of hand surgeons in the US are relatively diverse, with individuals from a range of racial and ethnic backgrounds represented in the field.  

Employment Setting: Hand surgeons may work in a variety of settings, including private practices, hospitals, academic medical centers, and research institutions. Many hand surgeons also choose to subspecialize further within the field, focusing on areas such as sports medicine, pediatrics, or microsurgery.  

Income: Hand surgery is a highly specialized and competitive field, and hand surgeons in the US typically earn a high income. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for orthopedic surgeons was $526,385 as of May 2020.  

Demand: Hand surgery is a growing field, with increasing demand for qualified hand surgeons across the US. This is due in part to the aging population, as well as the growing prevalence of conditions such as arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. As a result, hand surgery is a rewarding and impactful career choice for those interested in the diagnosis and treatment of hand and upper extremity conditions.  

How Long Does It Take to Become a Hand Surgeon in the USA? 

Becoming a hand surgeon in the United States typically requires a significant investment of time and resources. The education and training process can take over a decade and includes completing an undergraduate degree, attending medical school, completing a residency in orthopedic surgery or plastic surgery, and becoming certified by the ABOS or ABOnce you have completed your education and training, you can expect to work as a hand surgeon for many years, with the opportunity for ongoing professional development and specialization. 

What Does a Career in Orthopedics Look Like? 

A career in orthopedics can be both rewarding and challenging. Orthopedic surgeons work long hours and are often on call to treat emergency cases. They must also be able to work well under pressure and have excellent communication skills to work effectively with other healthcare professionals and patients. 

However, orthopedic surgeons also have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of their patients. They can help patients recover from injuries, improve their mobility and quality of life, and prevent future injuries and complications. 

Orthopedic surgeons also have the opportunity for ongoing professional development and specialization, with the ability to focus on a particular area of interest within the field. 

FAQs 

What is the difference between an orthopedic surgeon and a hand surgeon?     
Orthopedic surgeons specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions and injuries throughout the body, while hand surgeons focus specifically on the hand, wrist, and forearm.   

How long does it take to become a hand surgeon in the US?     
Becoming a hand surgeon in the US requires completing an undergraduate degree, attending medical school, completing a residency in orthopedic surgery or plastic surgery, and becoming certified by the ABOS or ABPS. This process typically takes 9-11 years.   

What are the best colleges for orthopedics in the United States?     
There are many excellent colleges and universities in the US that offer orthopedic surgery programs, including the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, and the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.   

What are the demographics of hand surgeons in the US?     
Hand surgeons in the US are predominantly male, with the average age being in the mid-40s. They are also typically highly educated, with the majority holding a medical degree and completing a residency in orthopedic surgery or plastic surgery.   

How can I find a hand surgeon in my area?     
You can find a hand surgeon in your area by searching online directories such as the American Society for Surgery of the Hand website, or by asking for a referral from your primary care physician or a healthcare professional.