Foot and Ankle Review articles on critical topics for orthopaedic exam prep …
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 Freiberg’s infraction is a osteochondrosis of the metatarsal head, most commonly affecting the second metatarsal in adolescent females, presenting with forefoot pain and limited dorsiflexion. Early diagnosis with weight-bearing radiographs and MRI is critical to prevent progression to subchondral collapse and joint incongruity. Surgical intervention is indicated for advanced stages with persistent pain, […]
### High-Yield Summary – The Myerson classification stratifies Lisfranc injuries based on the direction and extent of tarsometatarsal joint displacement, guiding surgical approach and fixation strategy. – Type A involves total incongruity; Type B involves partial incongruity (medial or lateral); Type C involves divergent displacement. – Accurate diagnosis requires weight-bearing radiographs and CT imaging to […]
High-Yield Summary Navicular stress fractures (NSFs) occur predominantly in high-level athletes due to repetitive midfoot loading and are prone to delayed union or nonunion because of the navicular’s tenuous blood supply and biomechanical stresses. Diagnosis hinges on high clinical suspicion, with CT scans as the gold standard for fracture visualization and MRI for early bone […]
High-Yield Summary Diabetic foot pathology results from a triad of neuropathy, ischemiaand infection, necessitating early recognition and multidisciplinary management to prevent limb loss. Surgical intervention is primarily indicated for deep infection, osteomyelitis, non-healing ulcers with exposed boneor critical limb ischemia unresponsive to revascularization. Accurate classification using the University of Texas Diabetic Foot Classification or PEDIS […]
High-Yield Summary Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is indicated primarily for end-stage ankle arthritis with preserved soft tissue envelope and adequate bone stock, offering pain relief and functional restoration while preserving joint motion compared to arthrodesis. Key anatomical considerations include the congruent talocrural joint, the complex ligamentous support system, and the load transmission through the ankle, […]
High-Yield Summary The Hawkins classification stratifies talar neck fractures by displacement and subtalar joint involvement, directly correlating with avascular necrosis (AVN) risk and guiding surgical urgency. Type I fractures are nondisplaced and may be managed conservatively; Types II-IV require urgent anatomical reduction and stable fixation to restore blood supply and joint congruity. Early recognition of […]
High-Yield Summary Talar neck fractures disrupt the tenuous vascular supply, risking avascular necrosis (AVN); early anatomic reduction and stable fixation are critical to preserving talar viability and function. The Hawkins classification guides prognosis and urgency of intervention, with higher types correlating with increased AVN risk and complexity. Surgical approach selection hinges on fracture displacement and […]
High-Yield Summary Midfoot arthrodesis primarily targets the naviculocuneiform, talonavicular, and calcaneocuboid joints to restore stability and correct deformity in conditions such as arthritis, Charcot neuroarthropathy, and post-traumatic collapse. Precise understanding of midfoot anatomy and biomechanics is critical to selecting the appropriate fusion level and surgical approach, minimizing adjacent joint overload. Preoperative planning must integrate deformity […]
High-Yield Summary Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) primarily affect the medial talar dome and result from ankle trauma or chronic instability, often presenting with persistent pain and mechanical symptoms. MRI remains the gold standard for diagnosis and lesion characterization; lesion size, stability, and subchondral cyst presence guide treatment. Non-operative management is reserved for stable, […]
Last Updated on January 25, 2026 by Christian Veillette










