History and Philosophy | Life as a Fellow | The Application Process | Teaching Laboratory
Caseload | Facilities | Salary and Benefits

History and Philosophy The Mary S. Stern Fellowship was established from Dr. Peter Stern’s passion and dedication to teach the science of hand surgery to young surgeons. The Fellowship officially began in 1987 staffed by the original three founders, doctors Stern, McDonough, and Kiefhaber. The staff has now grown to seven teaching physicians with an even broader curriculum and a teaching laboratory. The Fellowship has grown to attract outstanding residents from around the US. The philosophy of the Mary S. Stern Fellowship remains constant and is at the core of all decision-making. We believe that it is critical for physicians to understand the “why” and not just the “how” of hand surgery. It is truly a science that must be thoroughly understood for quality patient care. Learning the art of diagnosis and conservative non-surgical management is as important as mastering surgical techniques. Critical evaluation and scientific analysis is also core to our philosophy. Our Fellows are challenged to contribute to the advancement of Hand Surgery through laboratory research, clinical research, and to present their findings at scientific meetings. The Fellows are taught that the commitment to hand surgery is a life-long pursuit in which they can find honor and purpose. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive education in hand and upper extremity surgery. It is anticipated that the Fellow will devote the majority of his/her practice to hand and upper extremity surgery. Finally, we encourage our Fellows to successfully complete the examination leading to a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Hand Surgery and become an Active member of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.