Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics is proud to welcome Mihir J. Desai, M.D., FAOA, to our growing team of orthopedic specialists.
Dr. Desai is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand, upper extremity, and microvascular surgery. With more than 11 years of experience, he brings extensive expertise in treating conditions of the hand, wrist, elbow, and upper extremity, along with a strong reputation for clinical excellence and patient-centered care.
Dr. Desai will see patients at Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics’ Midtown, Green Hills, Franklin, and Brentwood locations.
Specialized Expertise in Hand and Upper Extremity Care
Dr. Desai is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and has earned a Certificate of Added Qualification in Hand Surgery. He has extensive experience treating a wide range of conditions affecting the hand and upper extremity, including:
- Fractures
- Tendon and nerve injuries
- Arthritis
- Complex trauma
- Peripheral nerve conditions
- Hand, wrist, elbow, and upper extremity injuries
Whether patients are dealing with an acute injury, chronic pain, or a complex condition, Dr. Desai brings specialized training and experience to help them regain function and return to the activities they enjoy.
An Extensive Background in Orthopedic Surgery
Dr. Desai earned his Doctor of Medicine from Georgetown University School of Medicine, where he graduated cum laude. He completed his orthopedic surgery internship and residency at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, before completing a fellowship in hand, upper extremity, and microvascular surgery at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.
Before joining Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics, Dr. Desai served as an Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He joins Elite after 11 years in practice, bringing extensive experience and a deep connection to the Middle Tennessee community.
During his time at Vanderbilt, Dr. Desai held several leadership roles, including Hand and Upper Extremity Fellowship Director and Director of the Vanderbilt Orthopaedic Clinic and Ambulatory Surgery Center in Franklin. He has also been actively involved in resident and fellow education throughout his career.
A Commitment to Advancing Orthopedic Care
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Desai has made significant contributions to orthopedic research and education. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and research presentations focused on hand and upper extremity surgery, peripheral nerve injuries, fracture care, tendon reconstruction, wrist and elbow conditions, and surgical outcomes.
He has also presented nationally and internationally on advanced topics in hand and upper extremity care.
Dr. Desai has been actively involved in national orthopedic committees and professional organizations, including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Society for Surgery of the Hand, American Association for Hand Surgery, and the American Orthopaedic Association. He also served a six-year term on the Board of Trustees for the American Foundation for Surgery of the Hand.
Serving the Community
Dr. Desai’s commitment to patient care extends beyond the operating room and clinic. He has participated in community outreach efforts, including providing surgical care for Nashville’s uninsured patient population through Hand Outreach Day and participating in international outreach through the Touching Hands Project.
His dedication to patient care and contributions to the field have also earned him recognition as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor each year since 2024.
Welcome to Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics, Dr. Desai!
Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics is excited to welcome Dr. Desai and expand the specialized hand and upper extremity care available to patients throughout Middle Tennessee.
With his extensive experience, advanced training, commitment to education, and patient-centered approach to care, Dr. Desai is a valuable addition to the Elite team.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Desai today at one of the four convenient locations where he sees patients and take the first step toward your recovery.
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Mihir J. Desai to Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics!
Author: Maria Martini
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