About Me
My name is Dr. Brian Fitzgerald, and I am a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with subspecialty training in hand and upper extremity surgery. I have been practicing since 2005 and joined the team at Kaiser Permanente San Diego in 2016.
Biography
I was born and raised near Washington, DC, and moved to southwestern Pennsylvania to study biology at Villanova University. Fascinated by the musculoskeletal anatomy, I returned to DC for medical school at Georgetown University and pursued a career in surgery. My college and graduate studies were funded by the United States Navy, so I spent the next several years in San Diego training as a surgery intern and serving as a medical officer in the Navy. I then trained in orthopedic surgery for the next 4 years at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego, followed by fellowship in hand and upper extremity surgery at the Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston.
I returned to San Diego and enjoyed 11 more years as a member of the Navy. During this time, I served as the chief orthopedic hand surgeon at the Naval Medical Center and finally retired from service in 2016. I was then fortunate enough to join Kaiser Permanente's Orthopedic Surgery Department.
About my practice
My practice primarily involves surgery of the hands, wrists, forearms, and elbows. The intricate and delicate anatomy of the hands and arms has always fascinated me, and this helps motivate me to perform the right surgery for the many conditions that develop during our members' lives. I stay active in professional organizations that ensure I remain up to date on modern surgical techniques and am proficient in procedures varying from carpal tunnel or trigger finger releases to tendon, nerve, and fracture repairs.
I am proud to have a team working with me that includes therapists, nurses, physician assistants, and medical assistants, all of whom will work to help you achieve a positive outcome. We prioritize open communication, so you feel empowered and heard every step of the way. Your well-being is our top priority, and we are committed to ensuring that you feel valued, supported, and actively involved in your care.
How I thrive
I thrive by leading a healthy lifestyle and making genuine connections with the members that walk through my door every day. I enjoy spending time with my family, which includes 4 kids and 2 dogs, and traveling to see extended family on the East Coast. I love stationary biking, cross training, and keeping up the friendships with those I have met over my many years in San Diego.