The Upper Hand: Chuck & Chris Talk Hand Surgery

Explore the intricate world of scleroderma treatment as the hosts discuss a challenging case with a patient affected by this complex condition. They highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and the delicate balance between surgical techniques and patient care. Insights into the emotional impact of surgery on both patients and surgeons add depth to the conversation. Teamwork in surgical practices is emphasized, showcasing how collaboration can significantly improve outcomes in demanding cases.

Terry Light, a seasoned mentor to hand surgeons, joins the conversation to delve into the medicolegal landscape of hand surgery. He shares valuable insights on avoiding medicolegal pitfalls and the nuances of becoming an expert witness. Topics include the importance of mentorship in navigating the intersection of medicine and law, effective communication with patients, and balancing the demands of professional life. Listeners will appreciate Terry's wisdom on optimizing tasks and fostering community ties in their surgical journeys.

Dive into the world of operating room efficiency with insightful tactics on running multiple surgical rooms. The hosts share memorable patient encounters and the surprising impact of their podcast on medical practice. Learn about essential sensory assessment techniques and how they differ across specialties. Discover strategies for managing complex cases while ensuring optimal patient care. A light-hearted chat about personal workflows and social media engagement rounds out this engaging discussion!

This week, the hosts unveil the Wheel of Hand Surgery, a fun way to explore surgical topics. They dive into the complexities of SLAC wrist conditions, discussing diagnosis and treatment options. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and personal connections in the field. They navigate through various surgical approaches, including wrist fusion techniques, while addressing the impact of steroid injections on cartilage health. Listeners get a blend of insightful education and engaging camaraderie!

Episode 30, Season 2: Chuck and Chris talk vacations- the science and the practice.  Using HBR references (HBR Article : We All Really Need a Vacation. Here’s How to Make the Most of It. by Art Markman. May 12, 2021) and our own experience/ challenges, we discuss the need for vacation, making the most of the vacation and some of the questions we all consider such as: Do you work on vacation?  Do you answer emails and if you do, when? How do you prepare for re- entry? Do you leave an out of office email?  How do you handle postoperative patients?As always, thanks to @iampetermartin for the amazing introduction and conclusion music.theupperhandpodcast.wustl.edu.  And thanks to Eric Zhu, aspiring physician and podcast intern.Survey Link:Help Chuck and Chris understand better what you like and what we can improve.  And be entered for drawing to win a mug!  https://bit.ly/349aUvz

Join the hosts as they dive into a challenging case of revision ulnar nerve surgery. They discuss the intricacies of cubital tunnel syndrome and the nuances of diagnostic tools. The episode highlights surgical techniques and how incision size impacts nerve alignment. Listeners will also gain insights into nerve conduction studies, EMG findings, and the complexities surrounding ulnar neuropathy treatment. With an emphasis on careful evaluation and patient care, this episode is a treasure trove for anyone interested in hand surgery.

Jeff Stepan, a hand surgeon at the University of Chicago, and Steve Lanier from NorthShore University Health System, share their enlightening experiences from their first year in practice. They discuss the challenges of patient referrals, the contrast between private and academic settings, and navigating the emotional highs and lows of surgical outcomes. The conversation dives into the importance of mentorship, teamwork in the operating room, and managing stress effectively—all while balancing personal and professional growth in the fast-paced world of medicine.

In this engaging discussion, Macy Stonner, an occupational therapist specializing in hand therapy, shares her expertise on post-operative care for stiff fingers. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration between hand therapists and surgeons for better patient outcomes. Macy introduces innovative rehabilitation techniques, highlighting the value of active motion versus passive motion in recovery. She also explores the benefits of static progressive splints and offers tips for managing joint pain, making the conversation both insightful and practical for those in the field.

Delve into the complexities of stiff fingers, where the hosts break down the critical assessment components from bone status to tendon mobility. They share unique surgical cases, including a nerve issue from a wrist cyst, and discuss innovative strategies like traction tenolysis. Expect insights into navigating flexor tenolysis under local anesthesia and the specifics of PIP contracture release, emphasizing patient engagement and surgical precision. Plus, there’s an exploration of post-surgery expectations and the evolving approaches to finger stiffness.

Explore the evolving treatment strategies for PIP joint fractures, with a spotlight on the shift from conservative care to surgical options, particularly in athletes. Discover the challenges of treating minimally displaced fractures, innovative fixation techniques for pylon fractures, and the significance of patient selection in surgery. The hosts blend surgical insights with personal anecdotes, showing the interplay of medicine and life. From classic TV references to upcoming adventures, it's a fascinating mix of expertise and storytelling!