Hand & Upper Extremities

The Pediatric Orthopedic Specialty Center has pediatric orthopedic surgeons who specialize in treating congenital and acquired hand and upper limb conditions, deformities and injuries. Congenital hand defects—such as syndactyly (webbed fingers), polydactyly (extra finger), trigger finger and Erb’s Palsy—and acquired hand injuries—such as fractures, dislocations, nerve injuries and trauma—are treated by the orthopedic care team. Advanced surgical techniques are used to restore hand function and correct hand and limb deformity and deficiency.

Evaluation & Diagnostic Care

A physicial exam and review of patient’s medical history will help the orthopedic surgeon determine if the hand condition is congenital or acquired. Ortho diagnostic care will ensure proper diagnosis for this congenital or acquired hand condition. Some of these tests are done in the Imaging Center. Early detection is important for successful treatment.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Treatment often begins with nonsurgical methods such as manipulation, bracing and casting to correct the deformity and stiffness as early as possible. The hand is manipulated into the correct position and then placed in a brace or cast to stay in the corrected position, depending on the level of acuity. Serial casting often will help correct the deformity in newborns. If non-surgical techniques don’t correct the condition, a surgical procedure is typically performed.

Surgical Treatment

Surgical correction can begin on your child when casting no longer improves the condition, often as early as 3 months of age. Pediatric orthopedics also provides consultation and surgical care to children with neuromuscular disorders. Hand and upper extremities surgeries are performed in the surgical center under anesthesia.