The hand surgeon you choose for your operation regardless of the problem must be someone you can talk to easily and feel comfortable asking questions of. This person must also be one who puts you at ease and someone you feel is trustworthy. Credentials are important but they are not everything. Choose a specialist you would recommend to those closest to you.
A good hand surgeon must be capable and be an expert in his field. Consider his academic qualifications. Is the doctor board certified in this type of surgery? Be aware that the highest of all certifications in terms of surgical procedures for the hands is known as the Certification of Added Qualifications in Hand Surgery.
If the specialist you find listed in the yellow pages or over the Internet does not list such a certification then take the time to do your research and find out. Call the office if necessary. Do not go to a physician who does not have this certification.
What type of surgery does the surgeon perform? Does he perform only operations on the hand or other types as well? Does he specializes in this one area or not? Find out what the practice type is. You are better off choosing a surgeon who predominantly works on such.
For example, look for a physician who does hand and upper extremity surgery but not other types. This is your assurance that his number one professional pursuit and focus is the body part that you need it to be. Trust your appendage at the end of your arm to no one but the best.
Hand surgery encompasses a tremendous amount of problems- everything from congenital deformities to injuries to disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome. It also addresses infections, structural changes brought on by diseases such as rheumatism, skin grafts, nerve repairs and tendon repairs.
Due to the broad nature of operations that deal with this extremity, it is important to bear in mind that the same level of interest and skill is not exhibited by every specialist you are likely to come across. This means that you must take your time in selecting the right individual for the job.
Some professionals specialize even further in particular appendage issues and you need to find the one who can help you the most to improve your condition.
Schedule consultations with an array of surgeons and sit down and talk with each one to get a feel for the kind of person each one is. It can never be emphasized enough, the decision of which surgeon is suitable for you is a very personal and individual one. Trust your instincts. If need be take a family member or friend with you to the initial meetings so they can provide you with a second opinion.
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