Vipul Patel, MD - Orthopedic Surgeon

02/03/2026

Severe burns can lead to scar contractures that restrict motion and hand function. In this case, burn-related scarring resulted in a first web space contracture, limiting the patient’s ability to bring the thumb out into space.

A four-flap Z-plasty was performed to release the contracture and lengthen the skin. This technique increases thumb mobility and allows the thumb to move more freely, improving overall hand function.

This case highlights the surgical release of a first web space contracture and restoration of functional thumb motion following burn injury.

02/01/2026

Giant cell tumors of the finger can be locally aggressive and may affect hand function as they grow. These lesions can cause swelling, stiffness, pain, or deformity over time.
Surgical excision is performed to remove the mass while preserving surrounding structures, joint motion, and overall finger function. Final diagnosis and treatment decisions are guided by pathology findings.
This case highlights the excision of a giant cell tumor of the finger and the importance of careful surgical management.

01/29/2026

Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to progressive joint destruction, pain, and deformity in the hands. When the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints are severely affected, everyday tasks like gripping and pinching can become difficult.

Silicone MCP joint arthroplasty is a surgical option designed to reduce pain, improve alignment, and restore functional range of motion. By replacing the damaged joint surfaces, this procedure can help patients regain hand function and improve overall quality of life.

This case highlights how thoughtful surgical reconstruction can address both function and appearance in patients with advanced rheumatoid arthritis.

01/28/2026

Fingertip amputations can happen in an instant. In this case, a band saw injury resulted in significant tissue loss at the fingertip.

When treating injuries like this, there are several options depending on the severity. The finger can be shortened, skin can be grafted from another area, or nearby tissue can be used to restore coverage and function.

This procedure uses a thenar flap, where healthy tissue from the palm is temporarily borrowed to cover the defect. Sometimes described as “robbing Peter to pay Paul,” this technique allows the fingertip to heal with durable tissue while preserving length, function, and appearance.

With proper reconstruction, patients can achieve excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes.

01/19/2026

Ulnar Nerve Lesions: Causes and Treatments of Nerve Damage.

An ulnar nerve injury (sometimes called an ulnar nerve lesion) can cause pain and numbness in your arm. Your arm might also feel weak if you hurt the nerve.

01/13/2026

✨ Patient Spotlight ✨
We love hearing from our patients! Our team is dedicated to helping every patient get back to the life they love. Thank you for trusting us with your hands!

📅 Schedule your appointment today and experience care you can trust.

01/12/2026

Preventing Shoulder Pain After Vaccine Injection (SIRVA).

Shoulder pain is a common side effect of a vaccine. Usually, it gets better fairly quickly and causes no long-term problems. However, some people develop a rare problem called shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA).

01/08/2026

Our team is dedicated exclusively to hand spine and upper extremity care, combining advanced surgical techniques with personalized treatment plans.

01/05/2026

New year, new goals and your hands should not hold you back. If pain, stiffness, or numbness i your daily life, early treatment can make all the difference.

Book your appointment today to see how we can help 💻 at: nyhanddoctor.com

01/01/2026

Wishing you and your family a happy and healthy new year!

12/22/2025

Happy Holidays! We wish you and your family a joyful holiday season!

12/21/2025

Before and after X-rays of a wrist fracture repaired with a distal radius plate. The plate helps restore proper alignment and stabilize the fracture, creating the foundation needed for safe healing and long-term wrist strength, mobility, and function.
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