David J. Mitten, M.D.

I care for people of all ages who have conditions that affect the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. These include fractures and dislocations, tendon and ligament injuries, arthritis, nerve and blood vessel injuries, and tumors. I manage common conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger, as well as rare ones, such as congenital hand deformities.

Orthopedic surgeries require a high level of technical expertise and experience in managing challenging conditions. My patients may be infants with congenital malformations, older adults with incapacitating osteoarthritis, professional athletes with sports injuries, classical musicians with overuse syndromes, or workers injured in occupational accidents.

I work closely with patients to create a treatment plan that will lead to a quick recovery. Often, treatment simply consists of therapy, a cast or splint, or an injection. If surgery is required, I use the convenient and efficient Clinton Crossings Procedure Rooms for outpatient surgical procedures when possible. The Procedure Room team of nurses and technicians that assist me are experts in the care of patients undergoing outpatient procedures. I also work closely with our specially trained hand and upper extremity therapists in the Hand Rehabilitation program to direct your post-surgical care and to ensure a fast and successful recovery. When bracing is ordered, our hand therapists are prepared to fashion custom orthoses on site the same day as your appointment.

At the UR Medicine, we get to know our patients, so we can personalize our approach and tailor treatment to each individual. I try to impart to residents and fellows the importance of making a connection with patients. Listening to my patients helps me to better understand their needs and expectations.

Research