Musculoskeletal Key

Abstract Spine questions can feature at any station for viva. They are frequently asked in adult pathology, but can pop up in basic science (structure of intervertebral disc), trauma (thoracolumbar…

Abstract The average orthopaedic trainee about to sit the FRCS (Tr & Orth) exam requires a basic knowledge of genetics. This doesn’t need to be encyclopaedic, but candidates will need…

Abstract Sterilization is the process that destroys all forms of microbial life and is carried out in healthcare facilities by either chemical or physical methods. Disinfection, however, is a process…

Abstract Alexander Suvorov would have done well in the trauma viva section of the FRCS Tr & Orth. Two citations attributed to him underpin the approach to the exam: Train…

Abstract This diagram is a representation of the lateral aspect of the ankle showing the bony and ligamentous structures. Structure 2 is the anterior talofibular ligament, structure 3 is the…

Abstract A 38-year-old left-hand dominant lady fell on to her right arm when out drinking and attended the accident and emergency department the next day at 4 pm as the pain…

Abstract There are several areas of pelvis/acetabulum that candidates need to be familiar with and other areas that are within a subspecialty interest. Acetabular/pelvic radiology is usually discussed at the…

Abstract There has been a change in emphasis in the oral questions in the last 2 years to higher-order thinking and judgement. Exam revision should be less book reading and…

Abstract A 53-year-old man was involved in a road traffic accident. He was driving the car and was wearing a seat belt. This is the radiograph obtained in casualty (Figure…

Abstract The stress–strain curve is a triple A-list subject. It always seems to be asked in viva examinations and is a definite top 10 core basic science question. In recent…