Learn Orthopedic Surgery, From the Source

Extensor Mechanism Ruptures

Anatomy & Biomechanics

The human spine is a complex, segmented column providing both mobility and stability for the body. It consists of 33 vertebrae: 7 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 fused sacral, and 4 fused coccygeal segments. These vertebrae are interconnected through discs, ligaments, and muscles, forming a biomechanically dynamic structure that supports axial load, enables movement, and protects the spinal cord. Each vertebra comprises a vertebral body and a posterior arch. The body, primarily cancellous bone, functions as the main weight-bearing element. The posterior arch, composed mainly of cortical bone, includes pedicles, laminae, and spinous and transverse processes, which provide attachment points for ligaments and muscles. Between adjacent vertebral bodies lie the intervertebral discs, acting as flexible cushions that absorb compressive forces while allowing controlled motion.

Imaging in Orthopaedics

Myths and Misconceptions in Arthroplasty

Despite rapid advances in implant design, navigation, and perioperative protocols, arthroplasty surgery remains surrounded by persistent misconceptions — many of which influence both surgeon behavior and patient expectations. Understanding and debunking these myths is essential for evidence-based orthopaedic care.

Robotic Assisted UKA

Robotic unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (R-UKA) is an evolution of traditional unicompartmental knee replacement, developed to improve component accuracy, reduce outliers, and enhance short-term recovery. It is indicated for isolated medial or lateral compartment osteoarthritis (Kellgren–Lawrence grade IV) when the remaining compartments are intact. Approximately 20% of knee OA cases are unicompartmental — most involve the medial side.

Patellofemoral Arthroplasty

The effects of postoperative malrotation alignment on outcomes of Gartland type III/ IV paediatric supracondylar humeral fractures treated by close reduction and percutaneous K‑wire fixation

Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research

Can achilles tendon ruptures be treated via PRP?

This study aimed to determine whether platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections promote healing and improve functional outcomes in nonsurgically treated acute Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs).The research was designed as a randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled prospective trial that included 40 male patients with an acute ATR.Patients received either four PRP or four placebo (saline) injections 14 days apart, in addition to standard orthosis treatment and a progressive exercise program.Over a 12-month follow-up period, the researchers evaluated the self-reported Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) alongside functional metrics such as heel-rise work, tendon elongation, calf circumference, and ankle dorsiflexion.The findings revealed that while both groups experienced significant improvement over time, there was no statistical difference between the PRP and placebo groups regarding ATRS or any functional outcomes at any point.Ultimately, the study concluded that the application of multiple PRP injections did not provide any superior clinical or functional benefits for patients with nonsurgically treated acute ATRs.

Optimal Tightrope Positioning for Adequate Syndesmotic Stabilization in Simulated Syndesmotic Injuries

Foot Ankle Orthop. 2025 Jun 19;10(2):24730114251342243. doi: 10.1177/24730114251342243. eCollection 2025 Apr. Optimal Tightrope Positioning for Adequate Syndesmotic Stabilization in Simulated Syndesmotic Injuries Mark A Goss et al.