MetroHealth orthopaedic and plastic surgeons have extensive training and experience in treating injuries or disorders impacting wrists, hands, arms, elbows and shoulders.

Some of that is due to their experience  as members of MetroHealth’s Level I Trauma Center team. Microsurgery rescue reconstruction and rehabilitation are crucial to being part of that team.

“We take vascular, neurological and devitalizing major injuries from institutions throughout the region. This is the only Level 1 hand and upper extremity trauma service in the region,” says Michael W. Keith, MD, Chief, Orthopaedic Hand Service. “The collaborative program at MetroHealth provides 24-7 365-day-a-year access to hand specialty trained surgeons.”

Both surgical areas have highly trained nurses and physical and occupational therapists.

Some of the most common hand, wrist, arm and shoulder surgeries addressed by team members include:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Trigger finger
• Fractures of the wrist, hand, arm and shoulder
• Infections, particularly when dealing with traumatic wounds
• Arthritis and degenerative conditions
• Post-traumatic reconstruction of the arm and hand
• Tendon, nerve and arterial repair and reconstruction
• Worker’s Compensation

The upper extremity surgeons have all completed additional subspecialty training to prepare them for the variety of injuries — ranging from simple lacerations to major limb amputation — that may be seen in a Level I trauma center. They have committed to provide around-the-clock care for patients with these injuries.

Physicians with the hand and upper extremity service performed more than 1,200 cases in 2011, which is indicative of the extraordinary demand for their expertise.

Dr. Keith notes that MetroHealth is a co-sponsor of the Combined Cleveland Hand Fellowship with Cleveland Clinic. Two fellows per year share diverse and challenging clinical educational and research opportunities.

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Plastic Surgery