Mastering the principles of Orthopaedic Surgery, one break at a time!

In this episode of Bone Break, we take a case-based approach to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures and reconstruction. Through the presentation of a young recreational athlete with a non-contact knee injury, we walk step by step through the clinical evaluation of suspected ACL injury, including mechanism of injury, physical exam maneuvers, and interpretation of imaging findings on X-ray and MRI. We review high-yield anatomy and biomechanics of the ACL, discuss the most sensitive special tests used in diagnosis, and highlight commonly associated injuries such as meniscal tears and the “unhappy triad.” The episode then transitions into management, covering non-operative versus operative treatment, indications for surgery, graft options for ACL reconstruction, and the principles behind arthroscopic reconstruction.

In this episode of Bone Break, we take a comprehensive, case-based approach to rotator cuff tears, one of the most common causes of shoulder pain encountered in clinical practice. Through the presentation of a middle-aged patient with acute-on-chronic shoulder pain, we guide listeners through the evaluation of shoulder pathology, emphasizing how history, physical examination, and imaging findings work together to localize rotator cuff injury. We review the anatomy and biomechanics of the rotator cuff, correlating specific physical exam maneuvers with individual rotator cuff muscles, and explain how to interpret common imaging findings on X-ray and MRI—including superior humeral head migration, tear size, and fatty atrophy. The episode then transitions into management, outlining conservative treatment strategies, indications for surgical repair, and advanced options for massive or irreparable tears, including tendon transfers, superior capsular reconstruction, and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

In this episode of Bone Break, we tackle one of the most classic and high-yield injuries in orthopaedics: Acute Achilles Tendon Ruptures. Using a real-world case, we walk through the typical mechanism of injury, hallmark clinical findings, and key physical exam maneuvers that allow for a confident diagnosis. We review which imaging modalities can be helpful and when, before diving into one of the most debated topics in foot and ankle surgery — operative versus non-operative management. This episode highlights modern, evidence-based treatment strategies, including early functional rehabilitation protocols, indications for surgery, and commonly used surgical techniques. We also outline the expected rehabilitation timeline, common complications, and exam-relevant pearls that every medical student should know before starting an orthopaedic rotation. Concise, practical, and clinically focused, this episode is designed to help you recognize, manage, and confidently discuss Achilles tendon ruptures on the wards and in the operating room.

Patellar instability is often due to underlying anatomic factors that predispose the patella to maltracking and recurrent dislocation, particularly during activities that place valgus and rotational stress across the knee.

In this episode of Bone Break, we take a structured, case-based approach to acute knee injuries, focusing on the initial assessment and management decisions faced in the emergency and acute care setting. Using the case of a teenage athlete with mechanical knee symptoms following a sports injury, we walk through the critical elements of the acute knee exam, emphasizing what must be ruled out early and which findings warrant urgent imaging or referral. We review the anatomy and biomechanical role of the meniscus, common mechanisms of meniscal injury, and key physical exam findings that help distinguish pain-limited motion from true mechanical blocks to extension. The episode explores classification of meniscal tears, including bucket-handle and root tears, highlights characteristic MRI findings, and discusses how tear pattern, location, and vascularity influence treatment decisions. Non-operative care, meniscal repair techniques, and indications for partial meniscectomy are covered, with a strong focus on preserving meniscal tissue whenever possible.

In our first episode, we navigate through the various types of bone healing processes, laying a solid foundation for understanding how our bodies recover from fractures. We also use these principles to explore the principles of plate and screw fixation, and the critical role of these constructs to ensure stability and optimal healing. This episode is your all-access pass to the orthopaedic OR, preparing students for their first hands-on experience in orthopaedics. Join us as we tighten the screws on orthopedic knowledge, ensuring you're well-equipped to step into the OR with confidence.

In this episode, we cover one of the most common injuries encountered in orthopaedic practice: the distal radius fracture. We unpack crucial diagnostic steps, including patient history, physical examination, and imaging, to classify fractures accurately. We then explore surgical approaches and management techniques, providing a clear blueprint for handling these prevalent injuries on your rotation.

In this episode, we cover ankle fractures, with a specific focus on lateral malleolus fractures. We highlight a structured approach to history taking and physical examination tailored to ankle injuries. We summarize some of the key classification systems and teach you to interpret ankle x-rays like a pro, identifying key features that influence treatment decisions. Finally, we will dive into management principles, from conservative care to surgical intervention, ensuring you're equipped with a comprehensive toolkit when seeing these common injuries on your rotation.

In this episode, we cover clavicle fractures, emphasizing the decision-making process behind operative fixation. We start with the essentials of history taking and physical examination, setting the stage for accurate fracture identification. We guide listeners through the nuances of fracture interpretation on x-ray and characteristics that may indicate the need for surgery. The core of the discussion revolves around operative fixation, detailing the criteria for surgical management and delving into the specific features that typically warrant this approach. We balance the conversation with an analysis of the risks and benefits of surgical intervention, providing a comprehensive overview for making informed decisions in the treatment of clavicle fractures.

In this episode, we cover one of the most common injuries in orthopaedics - hip fractures. We streamline the process from accurate diagnosis, starting with thorough history and physical exams, to imaging techniques that reveal essential fracture characteristics. Classification systems are also covered, directly linking to a decision-making system that simplifies the management of different hip fractures. This episode focuses on the surgical fixation options for hip fractures, while also highlighting key considerations for post-operative care. Simplified yet comprehensive, it's designed to arm you with the essential strategies for effectively managing one of orthopaedics' most common challenges, ensuring you're prepared to optimize outcomes for hip fracture patients.

In the final episode of our first season, we focus in on tibial plateau fractures, while also blending core principles of advanced trauma care. We start with the foundational concepts of tibial plateau fractures, covering the relevant aspects of history taking, physical examination, and imaging, as well as fracture classification and its implications for treatment. The episode also includes bonus content, covering the principles of open fracture management, compartment syndrome, and the ATLS approach for trauma patients. This episode is perfect for those looking to deepen their understanding and refine their approach to complex orthopedic injuries and trauma care.