Biography

Shoulders, elbows, wrists and hands represent some of the body’s most difficult surgical environments. Packed with tiny nerves, blood vessels and complicated anatomy, upper extremity surgeons have to be comfortable working with delicate tissues that most orthopaedists would rather avoid.  But Dr. Dorf has never shied away from challenge.

After completing his Orthopedic Surgery Residency at the University of Virginia, Dr. Dorf completed his Hand and Upper Extremity Fellowship with the renowned president of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, Dr. Andrew Koman at Wake Forest University, Babtist Medical Center. During this single year of additional training Dr. Dorf performed over 1000 upper extremity surgical procedures.  

Being able to relate well with people from all walks of life is an important skill for surgeons, but for Dr. Dorf, it has been a driving force.  He places a high priority on getting to know his patients as people, how they live, what’s important to them, and what support systems will be available to them during rehabilitation. Dr. Dorf credits his extensive fellowship training with his ability to remain calm and be creative even in the most stressful situations.

In addition to being team physician for Summit High School and Team Summit, Dr. Dorf is also an active member of the US Ski & Snowboard Physician Pool, and enjoys the challenges associated with the care of high level athletes.  “From my perspective, every one of my patients deserves the highest level of care.  We all live here because we enjoy our hobbies, athletics and outdoor activities.  My goal is to get my patients back to the level of performance they achieved before their injury.”

Dr. Dorf is board certified with the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery.  Born and raised in Eagle County, Dr. Dorf has 5 years of post graduate experience with Vail Summit Orthopaedics since completing his residency in 2008.  Dr. Dorf was a cyclist, skier and hockey player before becoming an orthopedic surgeon and he still enjoys these activities, in addition to spending time with his wife and two children.