

The Upper Hand: Chuck & Chris Talk Hand Surgery
Chuck and Chris
The Upper Hand Podcast feature Charles Goldfarb and Chris Dy from Washington University Department of Orthopedic Surgery. Our weekly podcast will discuss all things hand surgery, from the technical aspects of what we do (diagnosis, treatment) to our more personal approaches to events and opportunities that hand surgeons experience. We welcome feedback and audience engagement. We are grateful for the muscial contribution of @iamPeterMartin.
Episodes
Mentioned books

5 snips
Dec 7, 2025 • 40min
Clinic Efficiency and a Surgical Approach for Radial Tunnel Syndrome
Discover essential tips for running a more efficient clinic, including the benefits of AI scribes for faster documentation. Dive into a compelling surgical discussion on treating radial tunnel syndrome, where innovative approaches and anatomy insights are shared. Learn about effective strategies for handling challenging patient encounters and ensure smoother clinic operations. The hosts break down surgical techniques, including anterior approaches and tips for decompression, making it a must-listen for those in the field.

17 snips
Nov 23, 2025 • 50min
Guyons Canal Decompression: Indications and Technique
Chuck and Chris discuss Guyons Canal release indications and technical pearls along with treatment of hook of the hamate fractures.Also, Chris and Macy's book is available: https://www.amazon.com/Rehabilitation-Nerve-Transfers-Upper-Extremity/dp/3031920074We are in need of a podcast intern! We would appreciate any referrals!See www.practicelink.com/theupperhand for more information from our partner on job search and career opportunities.The Upper Hand Podcast is sponsored by Checkpoint Surgical, a provider of innovative solutions for peripheral serve surgery. To learn more, visit https://checkpointsurgical.com/.As always, thanks to @iampetermartin for the amazing introduction and concluding music.For additional links, the catalog. Please see https://www.ortho.wustl.edu/content/Podcast-Listings/8280/The-Upper-Hand-Podcast.aspx

4 snips
Nov 9, 2025 • 46min
Thought Leadership in 2025
In this lively discussion, the hosts delve into a complex elbow reconstruction case showcasing innovative surgical techniques. They tackle intriguing patient care topics, including wide-awake procedures and upcoming payment changes favoring clinic settings. The conversation shifts to thought leadership, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and storytelling in advocacy. With insights into VR technology in surgery and the role of social media, the hosts encourage clinicians to cultivate a thoughtful influence while navigating their professional paths.

4 snips
Oct 26, 2025 • 32min
Local Only Hand Surgery, Pearls and Challenges
Delve into the world of local-only hand surgery as Chuck and Chris share insightful pearls and address unique challenges. They weigh the pros and cons of performing procedures in the OR versus clinic settings, and find ideal candidates for local surgery. Discover patient persuasion techniques for choosing local anesthesia and the complexities of dealing with insurance issues. The duo also discusses training residents during awake procedures and shares valuable technical tips for successful outcomes.

7 snips
Oct 12, 2025 • 50min
ASSH Annual Meeting in Vancouver Live Podcast
Live from Vancouver, the hosts dive into the latest in hand surgery, tackling topics like using ultrasound for nerve assessment and the debate over in-office ultrasound purchases. They share insights from hands-on courses, highlight needle aponeurotomy techniques for Dupuytren's disease, and discuss post-op splinting strategies for distal radius fractures. The community aspect of the Hand Society is celebrated, along with practical tips for early career surgeons. A unique perspective on congenital hand surgery adds depth to the lively conversations.

Sep 28, 2025 • 35min
ASSH Annual Meeting Preview with Meeting Chairs Lindley Wall and Carl Harper
Chuck and Chris are joined by the co-chairs of the ASSH Annual Meeting, Lindley Wall and Carl Harper. They share insights on ALL of the exciting plans for the robust annual meeting in Vancouver. Join us and get excited about the. meeting with a few insider tips.We mention a new book about Sterling Bunnell. If you are not going to the meeting and would like to purchase a copy, use this link.https://american-society-for-surgery-of-the-hand.myshopify.com/products/dr-sterling-bunnell-from-son-of-the-gold-rush-to-founding-father-of-hand-surgeryWe are in need of a podcast intern! We would appreciate any referrals!See www.practicelink.com/theupperhand for more information from our partner on job search and career opportunities.The Upper Hand Podcast is sponsored by Checkpoint Surgical, a provider of innovative solutions for peripheral serve surgery. To learn more, visit https://checkpointsurgical.com/.As always, thanks to @iampetermartin for the amazing introduction and concluding music.For additional links, the catalog. Please see https://www.ortho.wustl.edu/content/Podcast-Listings/8280/The-Upper-Hand-Podcast.aspx

Sep 14, 2025 • 42min
Tennis Elbow with Macy Stonner
Chuck and Chris are joined by podcast regular Macy Stonner to discuss tennis elbow. Macy shares therapy perspectives on 'LET'. We also hear about about therapy for free functioning muscle transfers.We are in need of a podcast intern! We would appreciate any referrals!See www.practicelink.com/theupperhand for more information from our partner on job search and career opportunities.The Upper Hand Podcast is sponsored by Checkpoint Surgical, a provider of innovative solutions for peripheral serve surgery. To learn more, visit https://checkpointsurgical.com/.As always, thanks to @iampetermartin for the amazing introduction and concluding music.For additional links, the catalog. Please see https://www.ortho.wustl.edu/content/Podcast-Listings/8280/The-Upper-Hand-Podcast.aspx

13 snips
Aug 31, 2025 • 41min
Pearls and Challenges: Carpal tunnel, practice efficiencies, and the ulnar wrist
Dive into the complexities of treating the ulnar wrist and managing carpal tunnel with practical pearls shared by listeners. Discover effective techniques for ECU tendonitis and wrist assessments, along with the importance of thorough patient preparation and surgical scheduling. The hosts share a humorous take on unexpected alarms and highlight community feedback that shapes their conversations. Tune in for surgical insights and tips, including innovative uses of tools for better outcomes.

10 snips
Aug 17, 2025 • 40min
Handling Referrals Plus Tips and Tricks for Common Surgeries
The hosts dive into effective management of patient referrals, highlighting the importance of strong physician communication. They share essential tips for common surgical procedures like carpal tunnel release and trigger finger release. Recent innovations in peripheral nerve surgery are explored, along with challenges in obtaining federal funding. Personal anecdotes about navigating referrals and ensuring patient comfort are also shared, making this a vital resource for medical professionals and enthusiasts alike.

8 snips
Aug 3, 2025 • 43min
AIN Palsy and Advice for New Fellowship Grads
The hosts celebrate fellowship graduations with memorable anecdotes and practical advice for new graduates entering medical practice. They explore the integration of artificial intelligence in clinical settings, sharing insights on its potential benefits. A case of AIN palsy highlights the challenges of post-surgical complications and patient-centered care. Light-hearted banter creates a relaxed atmosphere, while discussions on surgical techniques and early practice complexities offer valuable guidance for aspiring hand surgeons.


