The Upper Hand: Chuck & Chris Talk Hand Surgery

Episode 14: Chuck and Chris discuss Chris' 2020 JBJS review on the hand surgery literature for 2019.  This is Part I of II with a discussion of thumb CMC arthritis and distal radius fractures, among other topics.Because of the crazy times, we also give some COVID-19 updates.  theupperhandpodcast.wustl.eduAnd, in these stressful times, I always recommend more @iampetermartin- jazz piano relaxation.

Chris and Chuck review the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our community and our practices, our training program, and we share some of the adjustments that have been made.  We recognize the rapid pace of change and the variability from community to community, state to state, and country to country.  

Explore seven clinical pearls that enhance efficiency in hand surgery. Learn the importance of personalized post-operative follow-up for fostering patient rapport and preempting complications. Discover effective communication strategies and optimal scheduling tactics within surgical practices. Hear insights on improving clinic efficiency using innovative tools and teamwork. The discussion delves into specialization within surgery, emphasizing collaboration and best practices in handling complex cases. These insights promise to inspire both clinical and personal growth.

Our first guest on the Upper Hand Podcast is the Journal of Hand Surgery Editor in Chief, Brent Graham.  We learn about Dr. Graham's training, career, and path to Editor.  We learn more about Dr. Graham's insights into the world of hand surgery and journal editing.  Dr. Graham also hosts a podcast for the Journal of Hand Surgery, so he is no stranger to this medium.   As always, thanks to @iampetermartin for the amazing music.

Dive into the ups and downs of surgeries that don't go as planned. The hosts highlight valuable lessons learned from unexpected challenges, emphasizing teamwork and adaptability. Discover the critical importance of composure and thorough preparation in achieving patient safety. Explore the balance between perfection and practicality in surgical decision-making. The discussion also covers the emotional aspects of training new residents and effective communication strategies, showcasing how every 'wack gig' can lead to growth and improvement.

In Scaphoid 2, we discuss our most common strategies for operative management, including when and how to go dorsal vs volar, when and how we like to use bone graft, and when angular correction is needed. We review our postoperative protocols for immobilization, therapy, and return to activity.  Technical pearls shared.  Thank you to @iampetermartin for his musical contribution.

Delve into the world of wrist injuries as elite athletes face the daunting scaphoid fracture. Discover advanced imaging techniques that play a crucial role in accurate diagnoses. Learn about the nuances of patient counseling for both operative and non-operative care. The hosts break down the dorsal approach in surgery, sharing practical tips and technical tricks. Comprehensive discussions emphasize the balance between surgical technique and postoperative recovery, ensuring athletes get back to their game.

Chris and I talk about the technical aspects of carpal tunnel surgery including our approach, open versus endoscopic, and other controversies.  Thanks to @IamPeterMartin for the amazing jazz piano.

We talk about one of the most common diagnoses in any upper extremity surgeon's practice- carpal tunnel syndrome.  This episode is mostly about our approach to the patient and the steps we take in assessing the patient and making a diagnosis.  We review important considerations such as: key patient complaints, which diagnostic tests help most, and how we use steroid injections.  Thanks to @IamPeterMartin for the amazing jazz piano.

The hosts discuss Steph Curry's recent hand injury and its impact on the Warriors. They delve into metacarpal fractures, exploring both surgical and non-operative treatment options. Personal anecdotes highlight the complex communication between medical professionals and athletic trainers in assisting high-level athletes. The conversation shifts to the essential collaboration during recovery, emphasizing tailored rehab strategies and realistic timelines for athletes eager to return to play. Insights on the advancements in fixation techniques wrap up a comprehensive look at this pivotal topic.