Rodrigo N. Banegas, M.D.

Dr. Rodrigo N. Banegas is an American Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon with Subspecialty Certification in Surgery of the Hand. With more than 25 years of experience in orthopedic surgery and over two decades dedicated exclusively to the care of the hand, wrist, elbow, peripheral nerves, and upper extremity, he is recognized for providing advanced, patient-centered treatment for both common conditions and the most complex reconstructive cases.

After completing his orthopedic surgery residency at the National University of Rosario in Argentina, Dr. Banegas pursued two years of postgraduate training in hand and upper extremity surgery through the Argentine Society for Surgery of the Hand. He then completed an advanced fellowship in Hand and Microsurgery at the internationally renowned Christine M. Kleinert Institute and the University of Louisville, where he later served on the faculty. Throughout his distinguished career, he has held academic and clinical appointments at the University of Louisville, Denver Health Medical Center, the University of Colorado School of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, and several leading orthopedic practices throughout Florida.

Dr. Banegas specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of a full spectrum of hand and upper extremity conditions, from routine disorders to highly complex injuries requiring advanced reconstructive techniques. His areas of expertise include:

• Hand, wrist, and elbow injuries
• Fractures and post-traumatic reconstruction
• Tendon and ligament injuries
• Peripheral nerve disorders
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Cubital tunnel syndrome
• Tendinitis of the hand and wrist
• Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
• Dupuytren’s disease
• Wrist arthroscopy
• Microsurgical reconstruction
• Brachial plexus injuries
• Replantation and limb salvage surgery

Known for his expertise in microsurgery and complex reconstruction, Dr. Banegas was an integral member of one of the pioneering hand transplantation programs in the United States. He served as Head of the Donor Hand Harvesting Team at the Christine M. Kleinert Institute, contributing to groundbreaking advances in reconstructive surgery. His clinical philosophy centers on restoring function, relieving pain, and helping patients regain independence through evidence-based, individualized care.
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Banegas has enjoyed a distinguished academic career. He has served as Clinical Instructor and Assistant Professor at the University of Louisville, Associate Professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, and Associate Professor at Florida Atlantic University. Since 2009, he has been a faculty member of AO Trauma North America, where he educates orthopedic surgeons in advanced fracture management and reconstructive techniques.

A respected educator and researcher, Dr. Banegas has authored numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications, textbook chapters, and invited presentations on peripheral nerve surgery, wrist arthroscopy, microsurgery, fracture reconstruction, and hand transplantation. His work has been published in leading orthopedic and hand surgery journals, and he serves as a reviewer for several international scientific publications. His dedication to medical education has earned him numerous accolades, including recognition as the University of Colorado Mentor of the Year for his commitment to training residents, fellows, and medical students.

Beyond medicine, Dr. Banegas is deeply committed to humanitarian service and community involvement. He has participated in international surgical missions providing specialized care to underserved populations and has led community health initiatives focused on education and wellness. He is also the founder of the Delray Beach Rowing Club (formerly the Rowing Club of the Palm Beaches), reflecting his passion for leadership, mentorship, and promoting healthy, active lifestyles for both youth and adults.

Dr. Banegas believes exceptional orthopedic care extends beyond technical expertise. He is committed to listening carefully to each patient’s concerns, educating them about their treatment options, and developing individualized care plans designed to restore function, reduce pain, and improve quality of life. His combination of extensive surgical experience, academic leadership, and compassionate approach has earned him the trust and respect of patients and colleagues alike throughout the United States and internationally.