Samuel E. Galle, MD
Dr. Galle developed his passion for hand surgery early in his medical training and enjoys treating patients through a combination of patient-focused care, lifelong learning, and a comprehensive team approach from injury to return to sports. He embodies a firm belief that achieving optimal results will positively impact all areas of patients’ lives – both professionally and recreationally.
Education and Honors
Dr. Galle graduated with high honors from the University of California, Santa Barbara. He received his medical degree and completed his residency at the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine. Dr. Galle then pursued further sub-specialization training in hand and upper extremity surgery at the Columbia University Carroll Fellowship at New York-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. The Carroll Fellowship is among the oldest one-year hand surgery training programs in the United States and is dedicated to educating and training the best leaders, innovators and practitioners in hand surgery.
During his fellowship, Dr. Galle honed his skills in comprehensive upper extremity management including fracture care, congenital pathology, acute trauma, and microsurgical techniques. He has a strong commitment to continuous learning and has been publishing throughout his training. His publications include peer-reviewed manuscripts to a wide array of orthopedic journals, including the World Journal of Orthopedics. He has also completed multiple textbook chapters, various poster presentations at national meetings, and cinematic contributions to online libraries dedicated to advancing orthopedic knowledge.
Dr. Galle is currently an active member in the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. In addition to treating patients all over Washington at Proliance Hand, Wrist and Elbow, he is an active physician with Evergreen Hospital Medical Center, Overlake Hospital Medical Center, and Swedish Medical Center.
Licensure and Board Certifications
Patient trust and safety are at the core of Dr. Galle’s practice. He holds active state medical licenses and advanced board certifications, ensuring that his patients’ care is backed by recognized medical standards and top-tier clinical expertise in hand and upper extremity surgery. His impressive credentials include:
- State Medical Licenses: Washington State Medical License
- Board Certifications: American Board of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic and Hand Surgery
Awards and Recognition
Driven by a commitment to exceptional patient care and clinical excellence, Dr. Galle has been consistently recognized by his peers and the local community for his expertise in hand and upper extremity surgery. Reflecting his dedication to the Pacific Northwest medical community, he was named a “Seattle Met Top Doctor” in 2021, 2024 and 2025 — an honor voted on by fellow licensed physicians in the region.
Additionally, many of Dr. Galle’s outpatient procedures are performed at Proliance Eastside Surgery Center, ranked #1 Ambulatory Surgery Center in Washington State by Newsweek in 2026.
Clinical Focus
Surgical and non-surgical treatment of the hand, wrist and elbow including reconstructions for osteoarthritis, arthroscopy, acute trauma, and injuries affecting athletes. Specialized areas of interest include complex upper extremity fracture management, peripheral nerve compression, and sports injuries of the hand and wrist.
