Center for Amputation Reconstruction Team
The care team at the Center for Amputation Reconstruction offers support and treatment for people experiencing phantom limb sensation, neuroma pain, and pain and discomfort resulting from ill-fitting prostheses.
Directors
Hand & Wrist Surgery, Orthoplastic Surgery
Dr. Hacquebord is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and accomplished microsurgeon with extensive experience in flap and free-tissue reconstruction of the upper and lower extremity. He holds dual appointments as assistant professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery as well as the Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery at NYU Langone. He is also co-chief of the Hand Surgery Service at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue.
Hand & Wrist Surgery, Orthoplastic Surgery
Dr. Ayalon is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in surgery of the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder with emphasis on nerve surgery, reconstructive procedures, and trauma. He is an assistant clinical professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at NYU Langone.
Prosthetists
Yoni Diamond, CPO
Mr. Diamond first became interested in the field of prosthetics and helping to restore people’s function and confidence during his service in the Peace Corps. He specializes in bracing and prosthetics and enjoys helping patients achieve their goals and regain their confidence.
Laura Katzenberger, CP, LP
Ms. Katzenberger helps patients who need upper limb prosthetics, working with a wide range of upper limb prosthetic components. She believes in an integrated, multidisciplinary approach that includes the prosthetist, occupational therapist, and technicians so patients receive customized care. She also helps educate therapists, physicians, and case managers about the effect that successfully created upper limb prosthetics can have on the lives of patients.
Tom Passero, CP
Mr. Passero had his leg amputated below the knee in 1974, an experience that inspired him to become a prosthetist. His focus in on advanced prosthetic technologies, such as microprocessor-controlled knees and bionic hands and fingers for people with unique upper limb prosthetic needs. He also leads discussions on upper limb prostheses with surgeons, physiatrists, occupational and physical hand therapists, and case managers.
John Rheinstein, CP, FAAOP(D)
Mr. Rheinstein is a board-certified prosthetist whose focus is restoring gait and grasp function in patients with limb loss. He specializes in complex upper and lower limb prosthetics and provides immediate postoperative care. He divides his time between providing care for people who need prosthetic devices and researching and testing new products. He also presents at academic conferences, teaches continuing education courses, publishes in textbooks and professional journals, and trains prosthetic residents.
Support Staff
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Wendy Razzi
Ms. Razzi is clinical coordinator at the Center for Amputation Reconstruction. She was born and raised in New York City and has been working in orthopedic surgery for 10 years. She is passionate about assisting in providing excellent patient care. In her spare time, she enjoys long-distance running, hiking, and fishing.