Brian T. Carlsen, M.D.

Brian T. Carlsen, M.D., is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with anadded qualification in hand surgery. He serves as a consultant in both Orthopedic Surgery and Plastic Surgery at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. Carlsen specializes in complex upper and lower limb reconstruction, including microvascular tissue transfer for individuals with significant or devastating extremity injuries. His work is focused on preserving limbs when possible, rebuilding function when tissue has been lost, and helping people move forward after injuries that may include amputation.

Dr. Carlsen's expertise includes nerve transfer, targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR), regenerative peripheral nerve interface (RPNI), and other procedures designed to improve function, manage nerve pain, and enhance control of a prosthesis. His additional board certification in Lifestyle Medicine supports a whole-person approach that includes surgical and non-surgical care.

Areas of expertise

Dr. Carlsen approaches each case with the goal of maximizing function while tailoring care to theunique needs of the individual. His clinical focus includes:

• Upper and lower limb reconstruction with microvascular tissue transfer: Advanced microsurgical reconstruction of the arms and legs after major trauma, cancer, or other complex problems, including transfer of tissue to restore coverage, preserve a limb, and support function.
• Limb salvage surgery: Reconstructive procedures designed to help prevent amputation through advanced tissue reconstruction and microsurgery.
• Peripheral nerve surgery and nerve transfer: Procedures for complex nerve problems affecting the upper and lower extremities, including nerve transfer techniques intended to restore or improve function after significant limb injury.
• TMR, RPNI, and advanced nerve pain management: Targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR), regenerative peripheral nerve interface (RPNI), and other techniques to address nerve pain and improve function, including for individuals who have undergone amputation.
• Reconstruction after amputation: Skeletal modifications, soft tissue reconstruction, nerve procedures, and other approaches to optimize the residual limb, improve comfort and function, and support better control of a prosthesis.
• Upper limb and hand surgery: Comprehensive surgical expertise for nerve, muscle, tendon, and bone problems of the hand and upper extremity.
• Lifestyle medicine and non-surgical care: Holistic treatment options that support overall health and recovery, with surgery recommended when it is the right choice for the individual.

Research

Research and education remain central to Dr. Carlsen's work. His contributions to reconstructive surgery help advance techniques that improve outcomes for individuals facing complex injuries, limb loss, or challenging reconstructive needs. As a mentor and educator, he is committed to training future surgeons and sharing knowledge that strengthens the field. This ongoing curiosity and dedication to learning reflect a broader commitment to delivering compassionate, high-quality surgical care while expanding possibilities for the people he serves.