Information Regarding COVID-19

Hand Surgery Specialist

Regenerative Orthopedics Institute

Renee Smith, MD FAAOS

Orthopaedic Surgery located in San Luis Obispo, CA

Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Renee Smith, MD, is an expert in hand surgery. At Regenerative Orthopedics Institute in San Luis Obispo, California, Dr. Smith performs a full spectrum of hand surgery procedures, from simple to complex. If you need any type of hand surgery, call the office or book an appointment online today.

Hand Surgery Q&A

What is hand surgery?

Your hands are among the most intricate and complex parts of your body. They help you complete many daily activities, from tying your shoes to preparing dinner. Numerous joints, tendons, nerves, and muscles work together to allow your hands to move and function this way.

When one or more of these structures becomes damaged from injury or disease, it can affect your ability to use your hand. 

Dr. Smith is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with training in hand surgery. If you have an injury or condition that impairs the use of your hand, she has the specialized skills necessary to help.

Why would I need hand surgery?

In addition to problems with the hand, Dr. Smith also treats injuries and conditions that affect the arm, elbow, and shoulder. She treats a wide range of injuries at Regenerative Orthopedics Institute, including:

  • Fractures of the hand, wrist, and forearm
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Tennis and golfer’s elbow
  • Wrist pain
  • Trigger finger

These injuries can result from acute trauma or from repetitive motions you employ during sports, hobbies, or at work. Dr. Smith may also perform hand surgery to treat advanced cases of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

What are different types of hand surgery?

As a hand surgery expert, Dr. Smith performs all types of procedures, including:

Arthroplasty

Arthroplasty involves removing damaged parts of your joint to relieve pain. Dr. Smith may use arthroplasty to treat advanced cases of hand arthritis. 

Tendon repair

Tendons are bands of tissue that connect muscle to bone. They can tear partially or completely as the result of sudden trauma or overuse. 

Closed reduction and fixation

This type of surgery treats a broken bone (fracture) in any part of your hand, including the fingers. Dr. Smith uses this procedure to realign the broken bone and hold it in place as it heals. 

Nerve release

Nerves are essential for sensation in your hand. Trauma or overuse injuries, like carpal tunnel syndrome, irritate your nerves and may lead to nerve damage. 

If you need any type of hand surgery, call Regenerative Orthopedics Institute or book an appointment online today.