Welcome to our new website and to the practice of Dr Michael Catanach, an Australian-trained orthopaedic surgeon specialising in conditions of the hand, wrist and elbow.
A Newcastle-Trained Specialist
Dr Catanach completed his medical degree at the University of Sydney in 2011, before moving to Newcastle to undertake his specialist orthopaedic training at John Hunter Hospital, the busiest major trauma centre in New South Wales. That training gave him broad experience across the shoulder, elbow, hand, hip, knee, foot and ankle, as well as trauma, tumour and paediatric orthopaedics, before he chose to focus on the area he is most passionate about: the hand and upper limb.
Today, Dr Catanach consults from the specialist centre opposite Lake Macquarie Private Hospital and operates at both Lake Macquarie Private Hospital and Ramsay Surgical Centre Charlestown, bringing specialist hand surgery care to patients across the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie region.
Conditions We Treat
Dr Catanach sees and treats a wide range of hand, wrist and elbow conditions, including:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome
- Wrist and finger arthritis, including base of thumb (CMC) arthritis
- De Quervain’s tenosynovitis and intersection syndrome
- Trigger finger and Dupuytren’s contracture
- Ganglions
- Distal radius and scaphoid fractures
If you’re experiencing pain, numbness, stiffness or reduced strength in your hand, wrist or elbow, these are often the first signs of a condition that responds well to early, informed treatment.
A Personalised Approach to Care
Every patient is different, and every treatment plan should be too. Dr Catanach takes the time to understand what’s really causing your symptoms, explain your options clearly, and work with you on a research-based plan, whether that means non-surgical management or surgery. His goal is simple: to help you understand your condition and feel confident in the path forward.
Beyond the Clinic
Dr Catanach is also involved in teaching medical students and junior doctors, acts as an examiner for specialist trial exams, and has published research in respected medical journals. He speaks English, German and Spanish, and outside the clinic, he’s a keen ice hockey player.
Book a Consultation
If you’re dealing with hand, wrist or elbow pain, we’re here to help. Explore our condition pages to learn more or get in touch to book a consultation with Dr Catanach.