The upper extremity is a well-integrated organ with a large number of different organ systems within one unit. These functions also vary a great deal. These multiple functions vary a great deal and allow us to live fulfilling lives. The functions are motor, sensory, vascular, structural, strength, delicate motion, self-feeding, etc. This specialized organ requires specially trained practitioners to help deal with the ravages of time, injury and internal affectations.

There are the systems of muscle motor, rope (tendon) and pulleys to move bones in the fingers and wrist. There are the sensory nerve-driven and blood vessel-supplied tissues of the fingertips which play a piano. There are the larger motor nerve muscles of the one side of the hand which allow a cocktail glass to be picked up gingerly (thumb, index and long fingers).

At the same time, there are the larger motor nerve powered muscles of the opposite side of the hand which let a strong workman grab a wrench tightly (ring and small fingers). Other functions such as rotation of the arm and wrist and bringing the hand closer to the chest and mouth provide a major value.

These tissues can break, be traumatized bluntly, sharply or repetitively, get burned, become inflamed, degenerate, tear, scar, contract, become sticky, compress nearby structures, etc. This results in a number of conditions, including destabilizing fractures, numbness, nerve compressions like carpal tunnel syndrome, weakness, arthritis, finger-locking triggering, pain, tendonitis, stiffness, Dupuytren’s and other contractures, Raynaud’s intolerance of cold, etc. All of this has a negative impact on one’s ability to earn a living, enjoy hobbies and a social life and take personal care of oneself.

Toward the end of his reconstructive plastic surgery training, Dr. Kivett had a one-year dedicated training fellowship in hand, wrist and arm surgery with an orthopedic and a plastic surgeon who had both focused their careers on just this type of surgery. He continues to enjoy the treatment of both acute and chronic injuries, whether they be to bone, nerve, vessels, joints, tendons, muscle and/or skin.

Several times a year, Dr. Kivett also enjoys treating young children with birth defects of the hand and arm overseas on a charity basis.