July 21, 2011 - White Sox catcher Ramon Castro underwent surgery on Thursday, July 14, at Rush University Medical Center to repair a broken hand and index finger. The catcher injured his right hand while catching for Sox pitcher Mark Buerhle in the July 9 game against the Minnesota Twins. Castro was officially placed on the disabled list on Sunday, July 10, and was scheduled for surgery with Dr. Mark Cohen and Dr. John Fernandez of Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush.

The surgery to realign the index metacarpal and phalanx fractures was done using small incisions and temporary pins. "We were able to realign the bones using small incisions, which will allow for a faster recovery and less scar tissue," said Dr. Cohen. "We were very pleased with the success of the surgery."

Castro will undergo 8-12 weeks of rehabilitation under Sox head athletic trainer Herm Schneider as well as regular follow ups with the Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush hand, wrist & elbow specialists. Dr. Mark Cohen and Dr. John Fernandez have operated on many professional athletes, including athletes from both the Chicago Bulls and White Sox teams. "We knew that Ramon would receive the best care under Dr. Cohen and Dr. Fernandez. The doctors were pleased with the surgery, and we expect his full recovery," said Herm Schneider.

On July 19 the Orthopaedics program at Rush was ranked the top orthopaedic program in Illinois and 8th in the nation by U.S. News & World Report in its Best Hospitals issue.

Mark S. Cohen, M.D.

John J. Fernandez, M.D.