Patient Care
Our surgeons provide advanced care for both common and complex hand and upper extremity conditions, including arthritis, fractures, cysts, and other less common disorders.
The Duke Division of Hand Surgery combines the expertise of specialists in surgery, plastic surgery, and orthopaedic surgery to deliver comprehensive care for patients requiring hand and upper extremity procedures.
Led by Dr. David Ruch, the division offers advanced treatment for a wide range of conditions—from common issues like arthritis, fractures, and cysts to complex injuries involving the hand, wrist, and upper extremities. Our team also specializes in sports-related injuries and chronic wrist pain.
Our plastic surgery hand specialists are pioneers in innovative procedures, including reattachment of amputated hands, fingers, and thumbs, as well as microsurgical techniques to repair damaged nerves and arteries. Duke is proud to be one of only about 10 hospitals in the United States to have performed a hand transplant.
Fellowship
Our fellows receive specialized training in the comprehensive management of acute hand and upper extremity trauma, microvascular emergencies, complex reconstructive procedures, congenital upper limb deformities, and injuries involving the brachial plexus and peripheral nerves.
Research
Our faculty are at the forefront of research into complex hand conditions, continually developing and refining innovative techniques to advance the treatment of hand and upper extremity disorders.
TEDx Talks | Human Transplantation
Dr. Linda Cendales is a trailblazer in the field of hand transplantation. She played a pivotal role in organizing and participating in the teams that performed the first and second hand transplants in the United States. Through her groundbreaking research and clinical work, Dr. Cendales shares insights into the complexities of these procedures, the science behind them, and the profound impact they have on patients’ lives.
