Why consult with a hand and wrist specialist? At Tidewater Orthopaedics, we understand that many of our colleagues in various branches of medicine can diagnose and treat hand and wrist conditions and injuries. However, with recent advances in medicine and technology, it has become increasingly important for physicians to study, train, and practice in specialized medical fields in order to provide the best possible patient care. We believe this is particularly pertinent with respect to the hand and wrist – a complex and intricate structure. The requisite level of specialization is available to patients from Hampton, Newport News, Williamsburg, and other nearby Virginia areas from the board-certified (American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery) hand surgeons at Tidewater Orthopaedics – “The Specialist Group” on the Peninsula.
To become an orthopaedic hand surgeon, a candidate must first complete a residency in either general, orthopaedic, or plastic surgery, and qualify for and pass the respective certifying specialty exam. The candidate must then complete a hand surgery fellowship, which involves an additional year of specialized training that provides in-depth, hands-on experience in all aspects of diagnosing and treating hand and wrist conditions. Finally, a hand surgeon may choose to take another rigorous examination to receive a certification of added qualification (CAQ) in hand surgery.
Other requirements to become a hand and wrist specialist include a minimum of 125 hand surgery cases managed over a 12-month period in a least six of the following nine categories:
In the Hampton Roads area, Dr. Robert Campolattaro is the only board-certified (American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery) orthopaedic surgeon who have attained CAQs in hand surgery – and this renowned surgeon practices with Tidewater Orthopaedics.
Like our surgeons, the physical therapists at Tidewater Orthopaedics have also completed extensive training and earned special certifications. This is important because physical therapy is often an essential part of treatment for any hand or wrist condition, and our patients have access to highly qualified hand therapists who are certified through the Hand Therapy Certification Commission. Our outstanding hand therapy department further differentiates us from other orthopaedic practices in the area.
Each hand and wrist specialist and hand therapist at Tidewater Orthopaedics is well-respected throughout the Hampton, Williamsburg, and Newport News, VA, area. To learn more about the treatments we offer, call (757) 276-3743.