Fellowship in Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery

The Hand, Elbow and Upper Extremity Fellowship at UCSF is an advanced orthopaedic subspecialty training program that provides a comprehensive blend of clinical care, hands-on surgical training, and research experience within a collaborative academic environment. Fellows are exposed to the full spectrum of upper limb conditions involving the hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, degenerative diseases, congenital deformities, and complex reconstructive cases. The program emphasizes extensive operative experience in procedures such as microsurgery, tendon and nerve repair, fracture fixation, and upper extremity reconstruction, while also involving fellows in outpatient clinics, inpatient care, and emergency consultations across multiple UCSF-affiliated hospitals. In addition to clinical training, fellows actively participate in teaching and research activities, enhancing their academic and professional development. Overall, the fellowship is designed to develop highly skilled surgeons with specialized expertise in hand and upper extremity surgery, capable of delivering advanced patient care and contributing to innovation in orthopaedics.

1. Apply through ASSH platform
2. Complete the Universal Hand Application via American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH)
2. Submit Required Documents
3. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
4. Personal Statement
5. USMLE Board Scores
6. Medical School Transcripts
7. Three Letters of Recommendation
3. Additional Submission
4. Signed code of ethics document
5. First page of publications (if applicable)
4. Application Deadline
5. Usually around mid-November (e.g., Nov 14)
5. Interview Process
6. Shortlisted candidates are invited for in-person interviews
7. Example: Interview held in February
6. Final Selection
7. Based on academic profile, surgical skills, and interview performance