《手外科雜志》發表了與上肢疾病和狀況相關的原創同行評議文章。同時考慮臨床和基礎科學手稿。該雜志還出版了病例報告，增強了對上肢疾病的診斷、治療和病理生理學的理解。特殊的特征包括強調手術技術方面的技術部文章，以及將當前有爭議的主題放在適當角度的臨床透視報告。

The Journal of Hand Surgery publishes original, peer-reviewed articles related to the diseases and conditions of the upper extremity. Both clinical and basic science manuscripts are considered. The journal also publishes Case Reports which enhance the understanding of the diagnosis, treatment and pathophysiology of conditions of the upper extremity. Special features include Department of Technique articles which emphasize the technical aspects of surgery, and Clinical Perspective reports which place current controversial topics in their proper perspective.