Foot and Ankle Review articles on critical topics for orthopaedic exam prep …
High-Yield Summary First metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint fusion is the definitive surgical treatment for end-stage hallux rigidus, severe arthritisand failed prior joint-preserving procedures. Optimal fusion position is 10-15 degrees dorsiflexion and 10 degrees valgus to restore gait mechanics and shoe wear compatibility. Rigid fixation with compression plating or crossed screws yields the highest union rates (>90%) […]
High-Yield Summary Haglund’s deformity is a posterosuperior calcaneal prominence causing retrocalcaneal bursitis and insertional Achilles tendinopathy, often refractory to conservative treatment. Surgical indications include persistent pain despite 6 months of non-operative care, significant deformity with Achilles insertion involvementand functional impairment. Key surgical approaches involve resection of the bony prominence with or without Achilles tendon debridement […]
High-Yield Summary The Johnson and Strom classification stratifies Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD) into three progressive stages, guiding treatment from conservative to surgical intervention. Stage I involves tendon inflammation without deformity; Stage II shows tendon elongation with flexible flatfoot deformity; Stage III presents rigid deformity with arthritis. Accurate clinical and radiographic assessment is critical to […]
High-Yield Summary The Broström procedure remains the gold standard for chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI) with intact or reparable ligament tissue, offering reliable restoration of ankle stability and function. Augmentation techniques, including internal brace and tendon grafts, are indicated when native ligament quality is poor, in revision casesor high-demand athletes requiring accelerated rehabilitation. Accurate preoperative […]
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, […]
Last Updated on January 25, 2026 by Christian Veillette










