The human hand itself is very complex and delicate in structure. Hand treatments and potentially surgery requires a completely different surgical approach from a qualified hand and wrist surgeon whether treating fractures, arthritis or deformities.
Hand surgery traditionally includes treatment of the entire hand, wrist and forearm. Again, this whole region works as a single unit, and the dysfunction of a single part needs consideration of the whole.
An additional year of training is required for those orthopaedic surgeons seeking certification in hand and wrist surgery.