The Upper Hand: Chuck & Chris Talk Hand Surgery

Chuck and Chris discuss Chuck's executive MBA program, then dive into the technical aspects of the 'spaghetti wrist' laceration. They also touch on the treatment of perilunate dislocation, tendon and nerve surgery, and therapy process for finger range of motion.

Dr. Marschall Berkes, Chief of Orthopaedic Trauma at Washington University Orthopedics, joins Chuck and Chris to discuss clavicle fractures. Topics include nerve cases and the use of adjacent tissue, radiographic evaluation and treatment options for clavicle fractures, surgical approach and considerations for nerves, fixation methods, and releasing a high school football player with a clavicle fracture.

The hosts share insights from the Hand Society meeting in Toronto, highlighting community and collaboration in hand surgery. They dive into a pediatric case involving an elbow deformity, discussing treatment complexities and surgical techniques with precision. Transparency in sponsorships is emphasized as vital for authentic medical conversations. Personal anecdotes from the Young Surgeon Bootcamp showcase the camaraderie and learning opportunities among rising surgeons. To top it off, they share fun details about the Drake concert in Toronto!

Chuck and Chris discuss studies on thumb CMC arthritis treatment, endoscopic vs. open carpal tunnel release surgeries, and conduits vs. decellularized nerve allografts for digital nerve repairs. They share concerns about over-distracting in arthritis treatment and discuss the implications of higher revision rates in endoscopic surgeries. They also emphasize the importance of honest reporting in medical studies.

Macy Stonner, a renowned expert in CMC arthritis and post-surgical care, returns to share her valuable insights. The discussion dives into the complexities of post-surgical rehabilitation, addressing the ideal duration of immobilization after surgeries. Macy highlights the importance of personalized recovery strategies to enhance long-term outcomes while managing pain. Key exercises for rehabilitation between six to twelve weeks post-operation are also emphasized, along with novel treatment options like denervation, ensuring a comprehensive approach to patient care.

Dive into the intricacies of median nerve repair, tackling tension issues and surgical decisions. Discover innovative techniques in nerve and tendon repair that enhance recovery outcomes. Explore the volar approach for scaphoid surgeries—its advantages and the nuances that ensure successful healing. The dynamic discussion includes coding challenges in healthcare, vital for success in hand surgery. Plus, hear insights on managing complex cases and improving patient outcomes in nerve repair.

Dive into the intricacies of ulnar nerve surgery techniques and the challenges of managing hook of hamate fractures, particularly in athletes. Discover the balance between professional responsibilities and personal time, as the hosts share insights on the art of saying 'no.' They also reflect on teamwork in the operating room and discuss humorous anecdotes about podcast sponsorships. This engaging conversation covers both clinical complexities and relatable experiences in the demanding world of hand surgery.

Megan Conti Mica, a hand surgeon at the University of Chicago and soon to be in Scottsdale, joins for a dynamic discussion. They dive deep into distal radius malunion, particularly in active patients like pickleball players. The trio explores surgical techniques, the importance of restoring volar tilt, and pain management complexities, including nerve blocks. Personal stories of mentorship and collaboration in the field add warmth, while their insights on upcoming conferences showcase the blending of professional growth with community connections.

Dive into the complexities of the PIP joint and the challenges of treating stiff fingers. The hosts explore a captivating listener case, discussing treatment options and the intricacies of joint stability. Discover fascinating insights into rheumatoid hands and evolving surgical training. They also share personal anecdotes that bring humor and relatability to the podcast. This engaging discussion seamlessly blends medical expertise with heartfelt stories, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in hand surgery.

Chuck and Chris discuss firework injuries and recent publications in hand surgery. Topics include machine learning algorithms for detecting Scaphoid fractures, outcomes of distal radius fractures, and ulnar wrist denervation. The podcast also touches on the challenges of treating hand injuries and the importance of specialized care.