My clinical expertise focuses on upper extremity surgery with an emphasis on shoulder and elbow reconstruction and replacement. I also care for multiple common hand conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome, Dupuytren‘s disease, arthritis, trigger finger and tendonitis. I was attracted to orthopaedic surgery because it is problem-focused and gives me the opportunity to restore function and improve people‘s lives. I was initially attracted to upper extremity surgery because of its multifaceted nature, a complex interplay of bone, tendon, nerve and ligaments. I was also attracted by the ability to perform microvascular surgery to help patients. I am most passionate about taking care of people and making their lives better. There is nothing more gratifying than a patient who experiences better function and less pain as a result of my care.

I have three research areas. One focus is anatomy research, and my goal is to increase understanding of the structure of joints and soft tissues. I also conduct demographic studies of different types of surgery, with a goal of increasing understanding of how patients can best utilize health resources. My third area of research is the immunohistochemistry of degenerative tendon. Research results will help physicians treat people with degenerative conditions such as arthritis, tennis and golfer‘s elbow.

As associate program director of the hand fellowship and co-chair of the resident research committee, I lead fellow and resident research. I direct medical student research as well and run the summer orthopaedic medical student research program. In this ten-week course, students have the opportunity to learn research methodology and conduct research while being mentored by a faculty member, including me.

Though I am well known for my clinical expertise in treating complex upper extremity conditions, I value teaching because it compels me to evaluate what I do on a daily basis and assess how to improve it. I also participate in national efforts regarding resident education: I write questions for the hand surgery board examination and serve as a board examiner for the oral boards in orthopaedic surgery. Inspired by Dr. Charles Severin, my mentor during my master’s degree in anatomical sciences at UB, I teach this essential subject to medical students and residents. I serve as course director of the integument-musculoskeletal module for first-year medical students. I feel indebted to my teachers and think about them daily as I work with fellows, residents and medical students.

Elbow Surgery, Hand, Hand Surgery - Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Surgery, Shoulder Surgery

Adolescents, Adults, Seniors/Elderly

Physician Gender:

Male