Abstract

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A unique multi-disciplinary resource which is a great read for those who have no time to read!

These concise revision notes are primarily aimed at candidates preparing for orthopaedic exams, and useful for those in Trauma and Orthopaedic placements.

We understand that it can be very demanding for candidates to prepare for these challenging exams whilst working busy jobs. With this in mind, we have written this book in an easy-to-read style covering the breadth and depth of T&O.

The concise high-quality content is exam-focused and complemented by hundreds of diagrams, illustrations, radiographs, clinical images and reference to landmark papers. This book will complement your exam preparation and be a great companion for on-the-go revision to help you sail through the exam.

Data Availability

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• Osteoarthritis:

  • Description: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced joint mobility.
  • Symptoms: Joint pain, tenderness, stiffness, loss of flexibility, grating sensation, and bone spurs.
  • Diagnosis: Physical examination, X-rays, MRI, and joint fluid analysis.
  • Treatment: Medications (pain relievers, anti-inflammatories), physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and in severe cases, joint replacement surgery.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis:

  • Description: An autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and potential joint damage.
  • Symptoms: Swollen joints, joint stiffness (especially in the morning), fatigue, fever, and weight loss.
  • Diagnosis: Blood tests (rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP), imaging tests, and physical examination.
  • Treatment: Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biological agents, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

• Fractures:

  • Description: Breaks in bones due to trauma, overuse, or conditions like osteoporosis.
  • Symptoms: Pain, swelling, bruising, deformity, and inability to use the affected limb.
  • Diagnosis: Physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.
  • Treatment: Immobilization with casts or splints, traction, surgical fixation (internal or external), and rehabilitation.

• Tendonitis:

  • Description: Inflammation of a tendon, often due to overuse or repetitive motion.
  • Symptoms: Pain and tenderness along a tendon, swelling, and reduced range of motion.
  • Diagnosis: Physical examination, ultrasound, and MRI.
  • Treatment: Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and sometimes corticosteroid injections.

• Scoliosis:

  • Description: Abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, commonly diagnosed in adolescents.
  • Symptoms: Uneven shoulders or hips, visible curve in the spine, back pain, and in severe cases, breathing difficulties.
  • Diagnosis: Physical examination, X-rays, and scoliometer measurements.
  • Treatment: Observation (for mild cases), bracing, and surgery (spinal fusion) for severe curves.

• Herniated Disc:

  • Description: A condition where the inner gel-like core of a spinal disc protrudes through its outer layer, potentially compressing nearby nerves.
  • Symptoms: Back pain, leg pain (sciatica), numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness.
  • Diagnosis: Physical examination, MRI, CT scan, and nerve conduction studies.
  • Treatment: Rest, physical therapy, pain medications, epidural steroid injections, and surgery (discectomy or laminectomy).