Review articles on critical topics for orthopaedic exam prep …
High-Yield Summary Constrained liners are primarily indicated in revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) for recurrent instability when soft tissue and bony constraints are insufficient. Proper patient selection and understanding implant design limitations are critical to minimize mechanical failure and optimize stability. The choice between constrained liners, dual mobilityand other options depends on the degree of […]
High-Yield Summary The Neer classification stratifies subscapularis tears by partial versus full-thickness involvement and tendon retraction, guiding repair urgency and technique. The Gerber classification focuses on tear size and tendon quality, correlating directly with functional impairment and prognosis. Accurate diagnosis requires high-resolution MRI with specific attention to the lesser tuberosity and subscapularis footprint; ultrasound is […]
High-Yield Summary The distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) is critical for forearm rotation and load transmission; instability leads to pain, weaknessand functional impairment. DRUJ instability results from disruption of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC), distal radioulnar ligamentsor osseous incongruity. Diagnosis hinges on clinical exam maneuvers (e.g., piano key test, DRUJ ballottement) combined with imaging-CT with contralateral […]
High-Yield Summary Degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS) in the elderly results from asymmetric disc degeneration and facet arthropathy, leading to coronal and sagittal imbalance with predominant back pain and neurogenic claudication. Surgical indications hinge on progressive deformity with neurological compromise or intractable pain refractory to optimized conservative management. Radiographic assessment must include full-length standing scoliosis films […]
High-Yield Summary Ankle arthroscopy requires precise portal placement-anteromedial and anterolateral portals are standard; accessory portals depend on pathology location. Understanding ankle joint anatomy and biomechanics is critical to avoid neurovascular injury and optimize visualization. Indications include osteochondral lesions, impingement syndromes, synovitisand loose bodies; contraindications include severe deformity or infection. Decision-making hinges on lesion size, locationand […]
### High-Yield Summary – Madelung deformity is a rare, congenital wrist malformation characterized by premature growth arrest of the volar-ulnar distal radial physis, leading to wrist pain, deformityand functional impairment. – Surgical intervention is indicated primarily for symptomatic patients with progressive deformity, painor functional limitation refractory to conservative management. – Corrective osteotomies targeting the distal […]
High-Yield Summary Titanium alloys exhibit superior osseointegration and corrosion resistance, making them the preferred choice for implants requiring long-term biological fixation. Cobalt-chrome alloys offer exceptional wear resistance and mechanical strength but have a higher risk of metal ion release and hypersensitivity reactions. Both materials demonstrate excellent fatigue resistance; however, titanium’s lower elastic modulus reduces stress […]
High-Yield Summary Small round blue cell tumors (SRBCTs) represent a heterogeneous group of aggressive neoplasms characterized by undifferentiated, primitive cells with overlapping histology but distinct management pathways. Accurate diagnosis hinges on integrating clinical presentation, imaging, histopathology, immunohistochemistryand molecular genetics to avoid misclassification and inappropriate treatment. Common SRBCTs in orthopaedics include Ewing sarcoma, lymphoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, neuroblastomaand […]
High-Yield Summary Distal femoral fractures require stable fixation that restores articular congruity and axial alignment while allowing early mobilization; fixed-angle devices are the gold standard for most displaced fractures. Understanding the distal femur’s complex anatomy and load transmission is critical for implant positioning and achieving biomechanical stability. Classification systems such as the AO/OTA guide surgical […]
High-Yield Summary Infected total knee arthroplasty (TKA) requires prompt, accurate diagnosis and tailored surgical management to optimize eradication and functional outcomes. One-stage exchange offers comparable infection control with fewer surgeries and faster recovery but demands strict patient selection and microbiological certainty. Two-stage exchange remains the gold standard for complex infections, resistant organismsor compromised hosts, balancing […]
Last Updated on January 25, 2026 by Christian Veillette










