Sports Medicine Review articles on critical topics for orthopaedic exam prep …
High-Yield Summary Quadriceps tendon ruptures predominantly occur in middle-aged to elderly patients with systemic risk factors; prompt diagnosis and surgical repair are critical to restore extensor mechanism function. Transosseous tunnel repair (TTR) and suture anchor repair (SAR) are the two primary surgical techniques; both provide biomechanically sound fixation but differ in surgical complexity, implant costand […]
High-Yield Summary Scapulothoracic dyskinesis (STD) in overhead athletes results from altered scapular kinematics, impairing shoulder function and predisposing to rotator cuff and labral pathology. Diagnosis relies on dynamic clinical assessment, including scapular motion observation and specific provocative tests; imaging is adjunctive but not definitive. Non-operative management emphasizing scapular stabilization and neuromuscular re-education is first-line; surgery […]
High-Yield Summary Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations primarily affect young, active adults and are classified by the Rockwood system, which guides treatment decisions. Type I and II injuries are managed non-operatively with excellent outcomes; types IV to VI require surgical intervention due to significant displacement and soft tissue disruption. Type III injuries remain controversial; patient-specific factors […]
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 Pectoralis major tendon ruptures in powerlifters typically occur during eccentric overload, most commonly at the tendon insertion on the humerus. Early surgical repair within 3 weeks yields superior functional outcomes and strength restoration. Diagnosis hinges on clinical exam-loss of anterior axillary fold, weakness in adduction and internal rotation-and is confirmed with MRI to […]
High-Yield Summary Chronic peroneal tendon subluxation results from superior peroneal retinaculum (SPR) injury or anatomical predisposition, causing lateral ankle pain and instability. Diagnosis hinges on dynamic clinical examination and imaging, with MRI and ultrasound critical for assessing tendon integrity and retinacular status. Surgical management is indicated for symptomatic chronic subluxation refractory to conservative care or […]
High-Yield Summary Syndesmotic ankle sprains involve injury to the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis, often from external rotation or dorsiflexion forcesand require precise diagnosis to prevent chronic instability and arthritis. Weight-bearing radiographs and advanced imaging (CT or MRI) are critical for assessing syndesmotic disruption and associated fractures; subtle diastasis may be missed on standard views. Classification systems […]
High-Yield Summary The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) primarily restrains posterior tibial translation; reconstruction aims to restore native knee kinematics and prevent long-term osteoarthritis. Single-bundle (SB) reconstruction targets the anterolateral bundle, providing good posterior stability but may inadequately control rotatory laxity. Double-bundle (DB) reconstruction attempts to replicate both anterolateral and posteromedial bundles, improving rotational control and […]
High-Yield Summary Adductor strain and athletic pubalgia often coexist in athletes presenting with groin pain; precise differentiation guides management. Key anatomic structures include the adductor longus origin at the pubic body and the rectus abdominis-adductor aponeurotic complex; injury here dictates surgical approach. Non-operative management is first-line for isolated adductor strains; surgical intervention is reserved for […]
High-Yield Summary The Outerbridge classification grades articular cartilage lesions from I to IV based on severity, guiding treatment from conservative management to surgical intervention. Accurate assessment of cartilage integrity is critical for prognosis and surgical planning, as cartilage lesions rarely heal spontaneously. Grade I and II lesions often respond to non-operative or minimally invasive procedures; […]
Last Updated on January 25, 2026 by Christian Veillette










