Take 5 with Wake Orthopaedics Hand/Wrist/Elbow Surgeon Patricia Wellborn, MD

We are excited to introduce Patricia Wellborn, MD, our new specialist in hand, wrist and elbow surgery at Wake Orthopaedics. With her extensive training and experience, Dr. Wellborn is dedicated to providing top-notch care for patients dealing with a variety of conditions affecting these crucial areas. Whether facing chronic pain, recovering from an injury or seeking surgical options, she is here to guide patients through every step of the process. Her approach combines the latest medical advancements with a compassionate touch, ensuring that each patient feels heard and supported. 

Please take a moment to get to know her in this engaging interview.

What made you interested in becoming a doctor?

I grew up in Charleston, SC, where my dad was a dentist throughout my childhood, and my mom managed his practice. Growing up in a patient-care setting showed me the true impact I could have on people’s lives. So, I knew I was interested in taking care of people and being in health care from a pretty young age and ended up going the medicine route rather than the dentistry route. 

Could you tell us about your educational preparation? 

I went to Washington and Lee University in Lexington, VA, for undergraduate studies before moving to Charleston to attend the Medical University of South Carolina for my medical degree. I completed my orthopaedic residency at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, NC, and then specialized further through a fellowship at the University of Colorado in Denver. My residency provided a broad education on all aspects of orthopedic surgery. During residency, I became most interested in hand and upper extremity conditions, which led me to pursue specialty training in my fellowship in Denver, CO.

What appeals to you about hand, wrist and elbow orthopaedics?

The anatomy of the hand is very intricate, and I find that interesting. Also, the anatomy directly impacts functionality. Our hands are critical to what we do on a day-to-day basis and restoring that back to people is a rewarding part of my job.

Share your current research interest.

I have been involved in projects focused on fracture management, which has sparked my interest in exploring various fixation methods tailored to different types of fractures and the unique characteristics of patients. Much of my research has concentrated on understanding the recovery trajectories following specific types of fractures in various patient populations, allowing me to identify effective strategies that can facilitate better outcomes for individuals during their healing journey.

What makes people more susceptible to hand fractures?

Hand fractures can happen in a lot of ways. Patients come with a new way almost every day, but certain patient characteristics make some more susceptible. Certain conditions, including diabetes, chronic kidney disease and advanced age, often contribute to an increased risk of fractures. In these patient populations, our primary goals are fracture prevention through education and optimization for improved outcomes if they do have a fracture.

What have you learned through fellowship training to enhance your level of excellence in patient care?

I spent a year working exclusively on hand, wrist and elbow conditions and fractures. I trained with national experts in our field. As a result, I am specialized in fracture and nerve surgery. Treating nerve compression and nerve injuries of all sorts are especially fascinating to me and rewarding to treat. 

What would you like patients to know about your approach to their care?

I think it is very important to provide patients all the information they need for shared decision-making. My goal is for us to develop treatment plans based on their lifestyles and activity needs. 

You love to ski. Where are some of your favorite resorts?

My family and I have skied all over resorts near Denver, CO, as well as those in Salt Lake City, UT.  I first learned to ski here in the NC area, and that started a lifelong passion for the sport. We like to try new spots and go whenever we can get away.