The Center for Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery

Ajul Shah, MD, FACS

Hand & Upper Extremity Surgeon
Double Board Certified in Plastic Surgery and Surgery of the Hand

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Dr. Ajul Shah is board certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, holding a sub-specialty board certification in Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery. His compassionate nature provides patients with a sense of safety and comfort during challenging times in their lives.

He has advanced fellowship training in hand and upper extremity surgery and microsurgery, alongside extensive training at institutions such as Yale University and New York University. Dr. Shah performs all aspects of hand and upper extremity surgery, including fractures, traumatic injuries, tendon injuries, and complex hand reconstruction. He also has a special interest in targeted muscle reinnervation.

After obtaining a Bachelor of Arts from Northwestern University, Dr. Shah returned to his hometown of Dallas, Texas, where he received his Medical Degree from the University of Texas Southwestern School of Medicine. He then attended the prestigious 6-year integrated Plastic Surgery Residency Program at Yale University. Following his residency, he was selected to complete an advanced specialty fellowship in hand and upper extremity surgery at New York University School of Medicine.

Dr. Shah has published numerous articles and book chapters and remains on the forefront of research and surgical innovation. He has held several leadership positions and received numerous awards throughout his career. Prior to joining The Plastic Surgery Center, he was appointed as the Chief and Medical Director of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Bayfront Health Saint Petersburg, which is a trauma center and tertiary care referral center. While serving as the Medical Director at Bayfront Health, he specialized in extremity reconstruction and limb salvage.

  • Awards & Accolades
  • Education
  • Languages Spoken
  • Insurance Accepted
  • 2025 NJ Monthly Top Doc
  • Top Doctors 2024 - NJTopDocs
  • Monmouth Magazine Top Doctors 2025
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  • Undergraduate:
    Northwestern University, IL
  • Medical School:
    University of Texas Southwestern School of Medicine, TX
  • Residency:
    Yale University, CT
  • Fellowship:
    New York University School of Medicine, NY
English
Spanish

The Center for Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery accepts a wide range of insurance plans, including many commercial and managed care options. Because plan details vary, we encourage all patients to call our office to verify specific coverage before scheduling. Our insurance specialists are here to help you understand your benefits, and for any out-of-network cases, we’ll work to secure the highest level of coverage possible—even arranging custom agreements when needed.

Dr. Shah Performs the Following:

Brachial Plexus
Neuropathy
Hand Reconstruction
Hand & Upper Extremity
Limb Salvage
Nerve Reconstruction Surgery
FLAP Surgery
Wound Debridement
Arm & Hand Paralysis
Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery
Toe-to-Finger Transplant
Joint Denervation
Amputation
Targeted Muscle Reinnervation (TMR)
Shoulder & Elbow Arthritis
Failed Hand Surgery
Elbow & Forearm
Distal Radius Fractures
Persistent Stiffness
Non-healing Fractures / Non-union Bones
Tendon Injuries
Extensor Tendon Injuries
Rotator Cuff Injuries
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
Chronic Joint Pain
Hand, Finger, Arm Replantation & Reattachment
ARMS Clinic
Arthritis
CMC Thumb Arthritis
DIP Arthritis
PIP Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis in Hand
Wrist Arthritis
Fractures
Wrist, Hand & Finger
Metacarpal Fractures
Phalanx Fractures
Scaphoid Fractures
Nerve Injuries
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Guyon's Canal Syndrome
Pronator Teres Syndrome
Radial Tunnel Syndrome
Suprascapular Nerve Entrapment
Wrist Drop
Tennis & Golfer's Elbow
Trigger Finger

Brachial Plexus

Damage to nerves in the shoulder, neck, or chest can lead to arm pain, numbness, or even paralysis. Our advanced diagnostic testing and surgical techniques offer significant and restorative relief for patients with a brachial plexus injury, including nerve decompression, transplant, transfer, and grafting. 

Neuropathy

Peripheral nerve damage or compression can lead to a chronic condition known as neuropathy, resulting in pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness of your extremities. Our innovative nerve decompression surgery has been successful in up to 90 percent of well-selected neuropathy patients. The procedure is minimally invasive, requiring only small incisions over the affected area thus promoting a quicker recovery.

Hand Reconstruction

When patients suffer a traumatic injury or illness that affects their hands, we can provide advanced surgical treatment to help restore function. We’re proud to offer a unique operation to restore the most important part of our hands: our fingers. Our toe-to-hand transplant has helped many patients achieve better function and movement.

Hand & Upper Extremity

Problems with the upper extremities can cause functional impairments and chronic pain, which can significantly impact quality of life. We offer advanced treatments, such as nerve transfers and targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR), to help patients regain functionality in their shoulders, elbows, wrists, and hands. Our patient-centered approach to treatment allows us to deliver superb outcomes.

Limb Salvage

When a limb is threatened by disease or trauma, our reconstructive plastic surgeons work together to develop a comprehensive, multidisciplinary plan to save the limb and/or maximize the function of the limb. Our surgeons use a combination of techniques for limb salvage, including skin flap surgery and nerve grafts — embracing a holistic approach that helps us achieve superior outcomes.

Nerve Reconstruction Surgery

When patients experience disfiguring or disabling disease and trauma, nerve reconstruction can provide new hope for healing. Our world-renowned physicians have pioneered several advanced procedures, including our groundbreaking phrenic nerve reconstruction surgery and brachial plexus reconstruction. We use specialized techniques to restore form and function through nerve grafts, nerve transfers, nerve transplants, and more. 

FLAP Surgery

Skin is our body’s most vital organ, providing protection from infection and disease. When skin is damaged due to trauma or injury, we become vulnerable to complications. Our specialists employ cutting-edge surgical procedures, such as skin grafts and skin flap surgery, to permanently replace missing or damaged skin.

Wound Debridement

When patients develop wounds that won’t heal, they are at risk for infection or more serious consequences such as amputation. We help patients manage and heal their open wounds. For severe wounds, we offer reconstructive procedures such as skin grafts or skin flap surgery to provide a covering for open wounds.

Arm & Hand Paralysis

When the nerve plexuses in the arm are damaged, it can lead to arm or hand paralysis, greatly impacting quality of life. We offer nerve transplant surgery to restore function for those with severely damaged nerves. Working with an expert team of transplant specialists, neurologists, immunologists, and infectious disease specialists, we are one of only a handful of centers in the United States that offer this treatment, which draws patients from around the world.

Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery

From fingertips to shoulders, injuries to your hands and upper extremities can have a significant impact on the quality of your life. Trauma-related injuries, such as fractures and sprains, and nerve injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow, can lead to chronic pain and functional impairments if left untreated.

Toe-to-Finger Transplant

For patients with finger loss, toe-to-finger transplantation can restore hand function. Our expert microsurgeons carefully transfer a toe to replace a missing finger, reconnecting blood vessels and nerves. This intricate procedure can significantly improve hand dexterity, strength, and appearance, enhancing patients' daily activities and quality of life.

Joint Denervation

For patients with chronic joint pain resistant to traditional treatments, joint denervation offers relief. Our skilled surgeons precisely interrupt pain signals from affected joints without compromising function. This minimally invasive procedure can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility in various joints, enhancing patients' quality of life.

Amputation

When limb preservation is not possible, our experienced surgeons perform amputations with a focus on future function. We carefully consider prosthetic options, preserve nerve function, and shape residual limbs to optimize comfort and mobility. Our comprehensive approach includes post-operative care and rehabilitation to support patients' recovery and adaptation.

Targeted Muscle Reinnervation (TMR)

TMR is an innovative procedure for amputees experiencing phantom limb pain or seeking improved prosthetic control. Our specialized surgeons rewire residual nerves to new muscle sites, reducing pain and allowing for more intuitive prosthetic function. This advanced technique can significantly enhance amputees' quality of life and prosthetic capabilities.

Shoulder & Elbow Arthritis

Arthritis in the shoulder and elbow can significantly limit upper extremity function. Our orthopedic specialists offer comprehensive care, from conservative management to joint replacement surgery. We focus on reducing pain, improving range of motion, and helping patients return to their daily activities with greater comfort and mobility.

Failed Hand Surgery

For patients who've experienced unsatisfactory results from previous hand surgeries, our expert team offers hope. We provide comprehensive evaluations and tailored revision surgeries to address persistent issues. Our goal is to improve hand function, reduce pain, and help patients achieve the outcomes they initially sought.

Elbow & Forearm

Elbow and forearm fractures can significantly impact upper extremity function. Our skilled orthopedic surgeons provide specialized care, from casting to complex surgical repairs. We focus on precise alignment and stable fixation to promote optimal healing, preserve joint function, and help patients regain strength and mobility.

Distal Radius Fractures

Distal radius fractures are common wrist injuries that can significantly impact hand function. Our orthopedic specialists offer comprehensive care, from casting to advanced surgical techniques. We focus on restoring proper alignment and stability to promote optimal healing and help patients regain wrist strength and mobility.

Persistent Stiffness

Persistent joint stiffness can significantly impact upper extremity function. Our specialists offer comprehensive care, from targeted therapy to surgical interventions. We focus on improving range of motion, reducing pain, and enhancing overall function to help patients regain comfort and capability in their daily activities.

Non-healing Fractures / Non-union Bones

Non-healing fractures require specialized care to promote bone union. Our orthopedic experts offer advanced treatments, from bone stimulation to complex surgical interventions. We focus on creating an optimal environment for healing, using techniques like bone grafting and stable fixation to help patients achieve full recovery.

Tendon Injuries

Our expert team specializes in treating a wide range of tendon injuries in the upper extremities. From acute ruptures to chronic tendinopathies, we offer comprehensive care using advanced techniques. Our goal is to restore tendon function, improve strength, and help patients regain mobility for enhanced daily activities.

Extensor Tendon Injuries

Extensor tendon injuries can significantly impact finger and hand function. Our hand surgery specialists offer expert care, from splinting to intricate surgical repairs. We focus on restoring tendon continuity, promoting proper healing, and implementing tailored rehabilitation to help patients regain full finger extension and hand function.

Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries can severely limit shoulder function and cause significant pain. Our orthopedic specialists offer comprehensive care, from conservative management to advanced surgical repairs. We aim to restore shoulder strength, improve range of motion, and help patients return to their daily activities with comfort.

De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

De Quervain's tenosynovitis causes pain and limitation in thumb and wrist function. Our hand specialists offer tailored treatments, from conservative approaches to minimally invasive surgery. We aim to reduce tendon irritation, alleviate pain, and restore comfortable thumb and wrist movement for improved daily activities.

Chronic Joint Pain

Chronic joint pain can significantly impact quality of life. Our multidisciplinary team offers comprehensive care, from conservative treatments to advanced surgical interventions. We focus on identifying underlying causes, reducing inflammation, and improving joint function to help patients regain comfort and mobility in their daily activities.

Hand, Finger, Arm Replantation & Reattachment

Our specialized team performs intricate microsurgical procedures to reattach severed limbs or digits. Using advanced techniques, we reconnect blood vessels, nerves, bones, and soft tissues. Successful replantation can restore function and sensation, allowing patients to regain use of their hand, fingers, or arm after traumatic injuries.

ARMS Clinic

The Amputation Rehabilitation Medicine and Surgery (ARMS) Center provides holistic care for patients with limb loss. Our elite team integrates surgery, prosthetics, rehabilitation, and mental health services to optimize recovery. Through innovative ARMS Care Days, patients receive coordinated treatment from multiple specialists in one visit, enhancing outcomes and quality of life.

Arthritis

Our multidisciplinary team offers comprehensive care for various types of arthritis affecting the upper extremities. From conservative treatments to advanced surgical interventions, we tailor our approach to each patient's needs. Our goal is to reduce pain, preserve joint function, and improve overall quality of life for those with arthritis.

CMC Thumb Arthritis

CMC thumb arthritis can severely impact hand function and daily activities. Our specialized hand surgeons offer a range of treatments, from conservative options to advanced surgical procedures. We aim to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore strength in the thumb, allowing patients to regain independence in their daily lives.

DIP Arthritis

Distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint arthritis affects fingertip function and dexterity. Our expert hand surgeons provide tailored treatments to address pain and stiffness in these small but crucial joints. From specialized splints to joint fusion procedures, we help patients maintain finger function and improve their quality of life.

PIP Arthritis

Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint arthritis can severely impact finger function. Our hand surgery experts offer a range of treatments, from specialized splints to joint replacement or fusion procedures. We aim to reduce pain, improve mobility, and preserve hand function, allowing patients to perform daily tasks more comfortably.

Rheumatoid Arthritis in Hand

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause significant hand deformities and functional limitations. Our multidisciplinary team provides comprehensive care, from medical management to advanced surgical reconstructions. We focus on preserving joint function, reducing pain, and improving hand dexterity to enhance patients' quality of life and independence.

Wrist Arthritis

Wrist arthritis can severely impact hand function and daily activities. Our specialized hand surgeons offer a spectrum of treatments, from conservative approaches to advanced surgical interventions. We aim to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore wrist function, helping patients regain comfort and capability in their daily lives.

Fractures

Our orthopedic trauma specialists provide expert care for a wide range of fractures. From simple breaks to complex, multi-fragment injuries, we offer comprehensive treatment using the latest techniques. Our goal is to promote proper healing, restore function, and help patients return to their normal activities as quickly as possible.

Wrist, Hand & Finger

Fractures in the wrist, hand, and fingers require expert care to ensure proper healing and function. Our hand surgery specialists offer tailored treatments, from casting to intricate surgical repairs. We aim to restore alignment, preserve mobility, and help patients regain dexterity for improved function in daily activities.

Metacarpal Fractures

Metacarpal fractures can affect hand strength and dexterity. Our hand surgery experts provide specialized care, from conservative management to surgical fixation. We aim to restore proper alignment, promote healing, and preserve joint function, helping patients regain full use of their hand for daily activities.

Phalanx Fractures

Finger fractures require expert care to ensure proper healing and function. Our hand surgeons offer tailored treatments, from splinting to precise surgical repairs. We focus on restoring alignment, preserving joint mobility, and promoting optimal healing to help patients regain finger dexterity and strength.

Scaphoid Fractures

Scaphoid fractures can be challenging due to the bone's unique blood supply. Our hand surgery specialists offer expert care, from casting to advanced surgical techniques. We focus on promoting proper healing, preserving wrist function, and preventing complications like avascular necrosis or arthritis.

Nerve Injuries

Our expert team specializes in treating a wide range of nerve injuries affecting the upper extremities. From simple compressions to complex lacerations, we offer comprehensive care using advanced microsurgical techniques. Our goal is to restore nerve function, improve sensation, and help patients regain strength and dexterity.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause significant hand pain and dysfunction. Our hand surgery experts offer comprehensive care, from conservative treatments to minimally invasive surgical release. We aim to relieve pressure on the median nerve, reducing symptoms and helping patients regain comfort and function in their daily activities.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital tunnel syndrome results from compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Our specialists offer a range of treatments, from conservative approaches to surgical decompression. We focus on relieving nerve pressure, reducing symptoms, and improving hand function to enhance patients' comfort and capabilities.

Guyon's Canal Syndrome

Guyon's canal syndrome involves compression of the ulnar nerve at the wrist. Our hand surgery experts provide specialized care, from conservative management to surgical decompression. We aim to relieve pressure on the nerve, reduce symptoms, and restore proper hand function for improved daily activities.

Pronator Teres Syndrome

Pronator teres syndrome results from median nerve compression in the forearm. Our specialists offer comprehensive care, from conservative treatments to surgical release. We focus on relieving nerve pressure, reducing symptoms, and improving hand function to enhance patients' comfort and capabilities in daily life.

Radial Tunnel Syndrome

Radial tunnel syndrome involves compression of the radial nerve in the forearm. Our expert team provides tailored treatments, from conservative approaches to surgical decompression. We aim to relieve nerve pressure, reduce pain, and improve arm and hand function for enhanced comfort and capability.

Suprascapular Nerve Entrapment

Suprascapular nerve entrapment can cause shoulder pain and weakness. Our specialists offer comprehensive care, from conservative management to surgical decompression. We focus on relieving nerve pressure, reducing symptoms, and improving shoulder function to enhance patients' comfort and range of motion.

Wrist Drop

Wrist drop, often caused by radial nerve injury, can significantly impact hand function. Our expert team offers comprehensive care, from splinting to nerve repair or tendon transfer surgeries. We aim to restore wrist and finger extension, improving hand function and helping patients regain independence in daily activities.

Tennis & Golfer's Elbow

Tennis and golfer's elbow can cause significant pain and functional limitations. Our specialists offer comprehensive care, from conservative treatments to minimally invasive procedures. We focus on reducing tendon inflammation, promoting healing, and addressing biomechanical issues to help patients return to their activities pain-free.

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger can cause pain and locking of affected digits. Our hand surgery experts offer a range of treatments, from conservative approaches to minimally invasive releases. We aim to reduce tendon irritation, restore smooth finger motion, and alleviate pain, helping patients regain comfortable hand function.

Office Locations

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Freehold
3499 Route 9 North
Suite 1A
Freehold, NJ 07728
Juniper Business Plaza 
Phone:
855-980-6981
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Gahanna
1080 Beecher Crossing N
Suite A
Gahanna, OH 43230
 
Phone:
855-980-6981
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Springfield
100 West Main St
Springfield, OH 45502
 
 
Phone:
855-980-6981
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Red Bank
331 Newman Springs Rd. 
Building 2 - First Floor, STE 200
Red Bank, NJ 07701
 
Phone:
855-980-6981
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