Skip to main content

Welcome to the new Gillette Children's website! Learn more and submit feedback.

About Ann Van Heest, MD

Ann Van Heest, MD, is a recognized expert in the field of hand and upper extremity orthopedics. She is an accomplished researcher with contributions to more than 50 papers and presentations. Much of her research has a focus on innovations in surgical simulation. Her advanced training (fellowship) in hand surgery was completed at Harvard University. 

In addition to clinical care, she is a professor at the University of Minnesota Orthopedics Department. Her accolades have included being resident teacher of the year and hand fellowship teacher of the year. She also received the University of Minnesota Award for Outstanding Contributions to Graduate Education and was the recipient of the ACGME Parker J. Palmer Courage to Teach Award. 

Dr. Van Heest is an active member of the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery Board of Directors, American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery, American Society for Surgery of the Hand, Pediatric Hand Study Group, Congenital Hand Anomalies Study Group. She is board certified in orthopedic surgery and hand surgery. 

Clinical Expertise 

Education 

  • Fellowship in Hand and Upper Extremity Disorders, Harvard University 
  • Orthopedic Residency, University of Minnesota 
  • Medical School, University of Minnesota 

Conditions:

  • Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM)
  • Arthrogryposis
  • Birth Brachial Plexus Injury
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Pediatric Hand and Upper Limb Conditions

Medical School:
University of Minnesota

Residency:
Orthopedic Surgery, University of Minnesota

Fellowship:
Hand and Upper Extremity Disorders, Harvard University

Board Certifications:
Board Certified in Orthopedic Surgery; Board Certified in Hand Surgery

  • American Board of Orthopedic Surgery Board of Directors
  • American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery
  • American Society for Surgery of the Hand
  • Pediatric Hand Study Group
  • Congenital Hand Anomalies Study Group

Find a complete list here.

I enjoy partnering with families in the care of their children to maximize each child's potential. My areas of special interest are hand and upper extremity, with special focus in children who have arthrogryposis, cerebral palsy, brachial plexus birth injuries, as well as congenital hand differences such as syndactyly, polydactyly and hand deficiencies.

Health Library

Find education related to your condition, procedure, care at home, and more. 

Search Health Library

Research

Gillette Research aims to improve treatment options for children who have disabilities.

Explore Gillette Research

News

From innovations to innovators, Gillette Children’s shares our news as leaders in specialty care and research.

News Releases