High-Yield Summary The Eaton-Glickel classification stratifies thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) osteoarthritis by radiographic severity, guiding surgical decision-making from conservative management to complex reconstruction. Stage I shows minimal joint space narrowing and no subluxation; Stage IV involves pantrapezial arthritis, often necessitating more extensive procedures. Accurate staging requires true lateral and Robert’s views to assess joint space, subluxation, […]
High-Yield Summary The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the thumb’s metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint stabilizes against valgus stress; rupture leads to instability known as Gamekeeper’s or Skier’s thumb. Complete UCL tears with Stener lesions require surgical reconstruction to restore stability and prevent chronic dysfunction. Diagnosis hinges on clinical valgus stress testing and confirmation with stress radiographs […]
High-Yield Summary Perilunate dislocations and fracture-dislocations represent high-energy wrist injuries with disruption of carpal ligamentous and bony architecture, requiring prompt recognition and surgical intervention to restore carpal alignment and prevent chronic instability or arthritis. The Mayfield classification guides understanding of progressive perilunate instability, while the Herzberg classification directs treatment by distinguishing pure dislocations from fracture-dislocations. […]
High-Yield Summary Distal radius fractures require precise restoration of articular congruity, radial length, and volar tilt to optimize functional outcomes and minimize post-traumatic arthritis. Volar locking plate fixation is the current gold standard for unstable or intra-articular fractures, providing stable fixation and early mobilization. Non-operative management remains appropriate for extra-articular, minimally displaced fractures in low-demand […]
High-Yield Summary The Herbert classification stratifies scaphoid fractures based on stability and healing potential, directly guiding operative versus non-operative management. Type A fractures are stable and typically managed non-operatively; Type B fractures are unstable and usually require surgical fixation. Accurate fracture identification via advanced imaging (CT or MRI) is critical to avoid missed instability and […]
High-Yield Summary Scaphoid nonunion results from disrupted vascularity and biomechanical instability, requiring precise assessment of fracture location, displacement, and carpal alignment to guide treatment. Proximal pole nonunions and those with avascular necrosis (AVN) demand vascularized bone grafting for reliable healing. Nonoperative management is rarely indicated in established nonunion; surgical fixation combined with bone grafting remains […]
High-Yield Executive Summary Congenital hand deformities require tailored surgical strategies based on functional impairment, anatomy, and growth potential rather than cosmetic appearance alone. Classification systems such as the Swanson classification guide surgical planning by categorizing deformities into failure of formation, differentiation, duplication, overgrowth, undergrowth, and constriction band syndromes. Decision-making hinges on preserving or restoring pinch […]
High-Yield Executive Summary Initial assessment prioritizes hemorrhage control, neurovascular status, and contamination; early multidisciplinary involvement is critical. Amputation level and mechanism dictate reconstructive options; preservation of viable tissue and bone length is paramount for prosthetic fitting and function. Classification systems such as the Modified Tscherne and the Mangled Extremity Severity Score (MESS) guide limb salvage […]
High-Yield Executive Summary Fracture classification drives management: Use the AO/OTA system for distal radius, the Fernandez classification for mechanism-based distal radius fractures, and the Lichtman classification for scaphoid fractures to guide treatment. Anatomy and biomechanics dictate fixation strategy: Preservation of articular congruity and restoration of carpal alignment are paramount to prevent post-traumatic arthritis and stiffness. […]
High-Yield Executive Summary Early identification and classification of brachial plexus birth palsy (BPBP) are critical to guide timing and type of intervention, with spontaneous recovery expected in most cases by 3 months. Non-operative management with physical therapy remains first-line for upper trunk (Erb’s) palsies without signs of spontaneous recovery by 3 months. Surgical exploration and […]
Last Updated on January 25, 2026 by Christian Veillette
