The Upper Hand: Chuck & Chris Talk Hand Surgery cover image

The Upper Hand: Chuck & Chris Talk Hand Surgery

The Story of Sterling Bunnell

Dec 24, 2023
Tony Smith, a hand surgery history researcher, and Steve McCabe, co-author of a biography on Sterling Bunnell, dive deep into the legacy of this pioneering figure in hand surgery. They discuss the founding of the Hand Society and reveal fascinating insights from their extensive research journey. The pair share personal anecdotes highlighting Bunnell's influence on surgical techniques and the evolution of hand care. They also touch on the importance of mentorship in the field, showcasing how historical context shapes modern practices.
44:35

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Sterling Bunnell's multifaceted background, including art and taxidermy, significantly influenced his innovative approach to hand surgery as a distinct specialty.
  • The podcast highlights the challenges surgeons face during peak demand periods, necessitating careful management of patient expectations amid an increasing workload.

Deep dives

The End-of-Year Rush in Surgery

The discussion highlights the challenges surgeons face during the end-of-year rush for surgical procedures, driven by patients wishing to maximize their insurance benefits after meeting their deductibles. Surgeons often schedule surgeries into the next year, leading to difficult conversations with patients who expect immediate attention for chronic issues. There is an acknowledgment of the rising patient demand for appointments, which strains surgeons' schedules. Surgeons, therefore, must manage patient expectations while making provisions for acute cases, demonstrating the balancing act required in practice management.

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