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 Terrible triad injuries combine elbow dislocation, radial head fractureand coronoid process fracture, resulting in inherent instability requiring surgical intervention in most cases. Early anatomic restoration of the radial head and coronoid process, combined with lateral collateral ligament (LCL) repair, is critical to restore stability and prevent chronic instability or stiffness. Non-operative management is […]
High-Yield Summary The coronoid process is critical for anterior elbow stability; fractures compromise varus and posteromedial rotatory stability, often necessitating fixation in unstable elbows. Regan-Morrey and O’Driscoll classifications guide fixation strategy by fracture size and location, directly influencing surgical approach and implant choice. Small tip fractures (<10% of coronoid height) may be managed non-operatively if […]
### ### High-Yield Summary – The Mason classification stratifies radial head fractures by displacement and comminution, directly guiding management from non-operative care to complex reconstruction or arthroplasty. – Type I fractures are nondisplaced or minimally displaced and typically managed non-operatively with early motion. – Type II fractures involve displacement >2 mm or mechanical block and […]
High-Yield Summary Lateral epicondylitis (LE) is a tendinopathy primarily involving the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) origin, presenting with lateral elbow pain exacerbated by wrist extension and gripping. Non-operative management, including activity modification, physical therapyand corticosteroid or biologic injections, remains first-line for both acute and chronic cases. Surgical intervention is reserved for refractory cases beyond […]
High-Yield Summary Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint arthrodesis is the gold standard for end-stage arthritis or severe instability when pain relief and stability outweigh motion preservation. PIP joint arthroplasty is indicated for patients prioritizing motion, typically with less severe joint destruction and intact soft tissues. Implant choice and surgical approach depend on patient factors, joint pathology, […]
High-Yield Summary Pyogenic flexor tenosynovitis (PFT) is a surgical emergency characterized by infection within the flexor tendon sheath, risking tendon necrosis and functional loss if untreated. The four Kanavel signs-fusiform swelling, finger held in slight flexion, tenderness along the flexor sheath, and pain on passive extension-are critical for early clinical diagnosis. Prompt surgical irrigation and […]
High-Yield Summary Mallet finger results from disruption of the terminal extensor tendon at the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint, often with or without an avulsion fracture. Non-operative management with continuous DIP extension splinting achieves excellent outcomes in most closed, non-displaced injuries. Operative intervention is indicated for large bony fragments involving >30-50% of the articular surface, volar […]
High-Yield Summary Dupuytren’s contracture is a progressive fibroproliferative disorder of the palmar fascia causing fixed flexion deformities, primarily affecting the MCP and PIP joints. Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (CCH) injection offers a minimally invasive option with faster recovery but higher recurrence rates compared to surgical fasciectomy. Fasciectomy remains the gold standard for severe or recurrent contractures, […]
High-Yield Summary Traumatic sagittal band injuries disrupt the centralizing mechanism of the extensor tendon at the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint, leading to tendon subluxation or dislocation, most commonly affecting the middle finger. Diagnosis hinges on clinical examination demonstrating extensor tendon instability during MCP joint flexion, supplemented by dynamic ultrasound or MRI when needed. Non-operative management is […]
Last Updated on January 25, 2026 by Christian Veillette
