MedTools

A unified repository of surgical implants, technique guides, comparisons, and unpackaging videos.

With so many orthopedic implant companies and device options, I am amazed it has taken so long for someone to create a central educational repository.  MedTools is attempting to do just that in the form of both a website and app.  The app itself is well organized with a side-bar menu organized by body part, and sub-menus organized by implant type.  For a generic implant type (ex: Volar Distal Radius Plates, or Total Knee Arthroplasty), the user can quickly see a collection of all available companies and device offerings.  In some cases (total joint arthroplasty) this can include well over 20 different implants from more than 10 companies.  Users can then select a specific implant to obtain product information such as technique guides, reference charts, and photographs of the surgical tray to help familiarize one’s self with the instrumentation.  The app and website have also started video taping “unboxing” of specific devices to ensure that surgeons and their operative staff are prepared and familiar with devices they plan to use.

Overall, this app seems to have been a long-time coming and reflects a significant investment in work and time.  I anticipate the breadth of implants will grow significantly in the near future, which should greatly increase its value and overall utility to surgeons.

PreviousNext

OrthoBullets: Bullets*

OrthoBullets’ stand-alone and companion app with study material, images, questions, and quizzes

OrthoBullets has scored a home run with their new Bullets* app available from the iTunes store.  This app is can be used as a companion app to the existing OrthoBullets website, but also functions extraordinarily well as a stand-alone resource.  The app consists of 5 sections: Topics, QBank, Cases, Evidence and PASS.  The topics section includes all information on the OrthoBullets site, separated in the same familiar lists and easily searched by keyword.  I found the search and browsing to be very fast and intuitive.  Importantly, each topic includes the same figures, diagrams, and questions associated with the web version to help learn concepts through the VEPTR technique.

The QBank also integrates with your existing online login and automatically transfers over your existing TestMaster scores and personal tests.  It also allows you to create new tests which can be defined by test style, topics, number of questions, etc.  The format will be very familiar to existing OrthoBullets users.

The cases will be familiar to any OrthoBullets user, and includes a presentation, images, and the valuable comments and discussion that ensures.  One of the newest features includes the ability to select “Evidence” to support an answer to a question, greatly enhancing the validity and value of this service.  The evidence can also be searched independently, and by specialty.  All of this is seamlessly integrated into the mobile format.

Lastly, the PASS section is available to residents who already use the PASS system in their residency program.  While I could not test this section entirely, it appears to function similar to the website equivalent.

Overall, the Bullets* app is a full-featured educational tool for any orthopaedic student, resident, fellow, or attending.  With quick and easy access to the entire OrthoBullets database combined with cases, quiz access and a versatile interface – I highly recommend this free app to everyone.

PreviousNext

RealWorld Procedures

Video and text tutorials for common procedures

RealWorld has created another app (in addition to RealWorld Orthopaedics) with tutorials for common procedures.  Those relevant to orthopaedic surgeons include digital blocks, local anesthesia, shoulder reduction, suturing, and upper limb slings. Each tutorial has a short video (1-3 min) with a text description of the background, precautions, equipment, positioning, procedure, and complications.  Overall, the limited orthopaedic procedures are relatively well represented and can assist a junior resident or medical student prepare for a first-time procedure.

PreviousNext

Learning Orthopedics Quiz

A “flashcard” style app for learning orthopedic surgery

This app is designed like a flashcard stack for orthopedic questions and facts. Unfortunately, the app does not tell you how many questions are included, nor can you create quizzes from specific sets such as a particular subject or only “new questions” or “incorrect questions.”  The user selects a quiz length from the options of 25, 50, or 100 questions.  The user then answers the questions and is provided the correct answer if they answered incorrectly while a score is kept and tallied. There exists an option “send” from the quiz.  While I initially suspect this would send a score or questions/answers for review, the button merely takes a screenshot of the current screen.  Overall, not a particularly useful app based on it’s very limited functionality and unknown flashcard stack size.

PreviousNext

Fractures

Basic app to assist with fracture classification and management

Fractures is published by Inter-Med, a company dedicated to creating educational medical products.  The app does not provide information about whether this was created by orthopaedic surgeons.  The purpose of the app is to provide basic fracture classification and treatment recommendations for a variety of common injuries of the skeleton.  The overall organization is simple, with the option to choose fractures based on a skeleton, list, or search feature.  We like that many fractures are included and that basic information about common classification systems and general treatment principles are provided.  We also really appreciate the abundant references and pubmed links to support the recommendations and information given.  However, fracture classification apps are typically improved with images and diagrams which we could not find in this app.  Adding images would improve the functionality and educational utility dramatically.

PreviousNext

JBS Algorithms Ortho

Educational app 

Joint and Bone algorithm is an orthopedic specific app with step by step guidelines for diagnosis and treatment for a large number of orthopaedic specific issue. It was created by the Joint and Bone Science Master Center in Tehran, Iran. This app is a terrific resource to help students, residents and supporting staff through easy to read algorithms regarding basic orthopaedic problems. The strength of this app is the content and development of almost 100 musculoskeletal algorithms. I applaud the developers for the breadth of their content. While I feel the content could be presented in a more interactive manner, the content and thought that went into the algorithms is impressive. Obviously there are some serious concerns regarding the accuracy and copyright of the algorithms, outside of this major issue the algorithms are well done.

PreviousNext

ICUC

High-quality case-based teaching tool for orthopedic trauma.

The ICUC app represents the future of surgical education.  Founded by orthopaedic surgeons and launched in 2014, the purpose of this app is to improve orthopaedic surgical education by sharing expert opinion on common cases through open and transparent commentary (www.ICUC.net).  The app itself is very high quality and has an intuitive user interface.

The user begins by selecting a body region, divided by bones/joints of the upper or lower extremity.  At the time of this review, about half of the bones/joints had associated teaching files. Once an area is selected, the user is presented with a library of cases, reference cases, and expert opinions.

The ICUC Library includes continuous and complete registration of every surgical procedure performed by a group of selected surgeons during a registration period, with no possibility of changes of any type to the original data for different fracture patterns.  For this reason, there exist cases with and without errors. An overview page for each case includes the AO fracture classification, assessment of outcome, approach, and highlights.  The entire case can then be downloaded and reviewed.  The case is of very high quality and includes pre-operative imaging (XR and CT), intra-operative photographs, intra-operative fluoroscopy images, post-operative XR, and post-operative clinical function.  As an example of the level of detail, the proximal humerus case I reviewed had over 170 included images and commentary.  Of note, the comments are quite honest, and appropriately critical about imperfect techniques or non-ideal outcomes.  The amount of information here is extraordinary, with just the proximal humerus having 49 detailed cases.

The Reference Cases section includes animations representing approaches and treatment techniques.  These are usually in the form of an animation and clearly represent the theory behind treatment.

The Expert Opinion section includes recommendations for various parts of the procedure.  For example, in the proximal humerus they include X-ray tips, advice for retraction of the cephalic vein, recommendations to avoid drill-tip screws, drilling tips, etc.  These reflect the opinions of experienced leaders in the field.

The interface is easy to navigate.  When cases are selected and downloaded, they are stored in the “briefcase” for easy access and reference.  Cases can then be removed as well, if additional storage space is required.

Overall, this app represents an extraordinary advancement in surgical education and transparency.  The inclusion of a high volume of cases, combined with honest expert opinion, provides the opportunity for enhanced resident and surgeon education that is not limited by geographic barriers.  I recommend this app highly for all trainees and surgeons.

PreviousNext

Xrays in MPS

Information about xray findings in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis

This app is developed by BioMarin and includes basic information about skeletal dysplasia in mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS).   The information tabs include general disease information, basic science, and images of hips, spine, shoulders, hand, and other bone deformities in the disease.

PreviousNext

JBJS Journals

Tablet access to all four JBJS titles.

One of the leading orthopaedic journals, JBJS, has released a fully-functional app for searching and reading content from their four journals: The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery, JBJS Reviews, JBJS Case Connector, and JBJS Essential Surgical Techniques. The app includes the functionality that would be expected of any comparable journal app: the ability to select articles, view full-text or PDF versions, search for articles or search within articles for terms, select favorites, and share articles with colleagues.  A nice feature includes the option to “Open in…” another program, allowing for easy download and transfer of PDFs into a personal archiving system or into an annotation app for future review.  The app is simple and easy to navigate without many bells and whistles.  The version I reviewed only has the current journal editions available, but hopefully archive data will be available in future.

PreviousNext

AOTrauma Orthogeriatrics

Educational tools for the care of older adults with fractures.

AOTrauma releases another high-quality app to assist in the management of fracture patients, this time with a focus on geriatric patients.  Not surprisingly, the app’s interface is smooth and intuitive, separated into 4 categories: osteoporosis, delirium, anticoagulation, and pain management.  Each section is organized as a drill-down series of questions to help guide the treatment for these patients based on current literature. At every step, “background information” can be selected to see the evidence guiding each decision.  The app is simple, useful, and achieves the stated goals of helping surgeons manage common co-morbidities in elderly fracture patients.

PreviousNext

PreOpEval

Preop assessment tool 

PreOpEval is a preop app to help guide how to evaluate patients for non-cardiac surgery. The guidelines are from the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association and the American College of Chest Physicians most recent recommendations. The app has a cardiac evaluation algorithm to help users decide what a patient’s pre op risk is prior to surgery as well as give guidance regarding key medications, test to order and timing of surgery after cardiac events. While these guidelines are accepted by the ACC/AHA/ACCP it does not mean that is what your local anesthesiologist will follow. Overall a useful tool for residents/students/ancillary staff to help think about what labs need to be ordered, which patients need further workup and how to handle patients on particular medicines.

PreviousNext

Touch Surgery

3-D Surgical Simulation App        

Touch Surgery is a 3-D surgical simulation app to help surgeons/assistants/students become more familiar with particular surgical procedures in their respective field. The app has recently been updated and now offers an even larger library of fundamental orthopaedic procedures that you can download onto your device. The visual clarity and upgrades have drastically improved over the last year. Once you have downloaded the procedure there is a simulation demo that takes you through a step by step demo. The simulation reviews patient set-up, incisions and which neurovascular structures to avoid as well as retractor placement using gestures you make on your device. Once you have completed the demo you can then test yourself through the procedure and see if you are improving your scores. Overall, the best surgical simulation app still out there. It has a clean interface and practical demos for learning orthopaedic residents and students. Some of the apps are 3-D modules which are better made for an iPAD. Hopefully more of the orthopaedics demo’s will be converted to a 3-D format.

In the news

PreviousNext

Radiopaedia MSK

App version of Radiopaedia.org, radiology teaching files for musculoskeletal education.

This app presents musculoskeletal imaging in a case-based format and is designed to teach students and residents about musculoskeletal injuries.  The app is very intuitive, and currently includes 68 case presentations.  Each case has unknowns with various imaging modalities and views, questions, and then answers to those questions. It also includes a radiology report, as well as additional online cases with the same (or similar) diagnoses.  The app is very simple, yet intuitive, and can be very useful for reviewing images.

PreviousNext

FracturED

App for learning skills needed to treat fractures in the emergency department.

Created by an emergency medicine resident, this app is organized into modules for educating residents about how to care for fractures in the emergency department. The app begins with basic information, including annotated images for demonstrating surface anatomy, bones, and nerve distributions.  The app is then organized into cases which include a brief story of the patient, appropriate xray imaging with various views, and a discussion of the pathology and treatment options.  The discussion also has an extensive list of references for additional reading.

As of this review, the app includes 20 cases for the “Hand and Wrist” including a demonstration of how to apply various splints.  However, the general “upper extremity,” “lower extremity” and “foot” sections are all marked as “coming soon.”

This app is a useful learning tool for ED residents, but is currently only limited to the upper extremity.

PreviousNext

BoneDoc

A serious game for simulating orthopaedic surgery.

The BoneDoc app is marketed as “a serious game” and functions as an interactive and educational orthopaedic surgery tool.  The game was created by Dr. Phil Blyth from New Zealand and represents many accuracies of hip surgery.

The app layout is a list of patients that need surgery.  The first case, for example, is a hip fracture that requires fixation. The surgeon must walk through every step of the operation, beginning with setting up the traction properly.  Xrays are available as the traction is adjusted to ensure that a proper reduction is obtained. Once complete the surgeon then moves on to the incision, as well as placement of the hardware.  Xrays are used throughout the “operation” to ensure the proper alignment and orientation of hardware.  Once finished, the surgeon receives a score for every aspect of the case, and is reimbursed appropriately.

The game is very impressive due to the attention of detail that has been placed, as well as the realistic physics and challenges inherent with fixing a hip fracture.  I applaud the developers for creating a challenging and educational app for surgeon education.  I look forward to future releases with additional fracture options.

PreviousNext

AAOS Musculoskeletal Exam – Spine

Simple app made by the AAOS to learn the spine exam

I commend the AAOS’ effort to create mobile educational material for students and trainees, which includes this simple app for learning the spine exam.  This app has a very simple structural layout in list form that presents the spine exam: standing/seated/supine/prone examination, Waddel signs, cervical spine muscle testing and cervical spine range of motion testing.  Each part of the exam includes a description, instructions and video.  In addition, references are provided for further reading. However, despite the useful information presented here, the app is bare and lacks much depth.  The user interface is unfortunately too simple and somewhat uninviting.  Overall, the content includes 46 total exam maneuvers.  At a cost of $9, this is quite a high price considering other apps that include more information and detail at a better value.  I hope that this app will be expanded upon and improved in future versions.

PreviousNext

Figure1

Photo sharing app for physicians 

A brilliant app that allows healthcare professions to share photos and discuss cases without violating HIPPA regulations. This company should be commended with the effort and detail they used to make sure they protect patient privacy. The issue with sending photos and sharing patient information to other healthcare professionals through a phone messaging has potential regulatory consequences. Figure 1 has solved this problem by creating intuitive in-app tools that easily allow the user to remove identifying information. There is an automatic face-blocker feature that detects faces in photos. In addition, the app has a quick consent form you can have the patient complete if your institution does not have a photo sharing policy in place. The app also has the functionality to allow users to search for topics of their particular interest. Figure 1 is a great photo sharing app with some clever features for health professionals that will improve once the user base increases. The app is a must have.

PreviousNext

AAOS Musculoskeletal Exam – Knee

Simple app to learn the knee exam and special tests

I commend the AAOS’ effort to create mobile educational material for students and trainees, which includes this simple app for learning the knee exam and special tests.  This app has a very simple structural layout in list form that presents the knee exam: inspection, muscles, range of motion, and special tests.  Each part of the exam includes a description, instructions and video.  The special tests include information about specificity and sensitivity and include a short reference list.  However, despite the useful information presented here, the app is bare and lacks much depth.  The user interface is unfortunately too simple, and the overall content includes only 20 total exam maneuvers.  At a cost of $9, this is quite a high price considering other apps that include more information and detail at a better value.  I hope that this app will be expanded upon and improved in future versions.

PreviousNext

CORE – Clinical Orthopedic Exam

CORE has set the standard for a clinical exam app.  Divided by body part, body region, alphabetical, favorites, or search – the app contains a database of over 400 clinical tests which includes a purpose, instructions, video demo, and test properties.   The most striking feature of this app, in addition to the vast collection of tests and videos, is actually the “properties” tab.  For every test, data is presented regarding the sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratio, accuracy and other relevant statistical tests based on primary literature references.  These lists are incredibly complete.  For example, the hip impingement test lists 10 primary sources with their respective sensitivities and specificities using the impingement test to detect labral tears.  In addition, by selecting the primary references the user is directed to the full literature source with the abstract text.  This is a feature that I have not seen replicated by any other orthopaedic reference.  The videos can either be downloaded to the app or a link to YouTube can be emailed/shared with colleagues.  Tests can be marked as a “favorite” and quickly reviewed at a later time.  Unfortunately, the search feature was not ideal.  When I searched “grind” there were “no results” but when I searched “Apley” I was provided with Apley’s Grind Test.  This app seems ideal for a medical student with an interest in musculoskeletal medicine (PM&R, sports medicine, or orthopaedic surgery) or a junior resident in any of these fields.  Overall, a very complete and useful app for trainees.

PreviousNext

Nerve Whiz

Extraordinary app with detailed and complete information about the brachial and lumbar plexes, including innervation, sensory distribution, and sites of compression.

Developed by Zach London, MD from University of Michigan, Nerve Whiz is one of the most useful and intuitive nerve reference resources I have come across.  The app includes complete information about the course, branches, innervation, sensory distribution, and sites of compression of the brachial plexus (C5-T1) and lumbar plexus (L2-S2).  The app has multiple sections with hidden gems.  “Chart” includes a complete listing of all data, organized by either upper or lower extremity and sorted by muscle, nerve, roots, action, trunk, or cord.  The next feature is an incredible “muscle localizer” and uses an intuitive algorithm to provide the site of injury after the user selects muscles that are injured.  For example, selecting a weak “deltoid” returns localization to either C5, C6, upper trunk, posterior cord, or axillary nerve.  The diagram section utilizes a brachial plexus diagram and highlights the selected area of interest – the diagram is both intuitive and complete.  The final section, “sensory,” allows the user to point to an area of sensory loss and returns a list of potential roots and nerves that may be injured, with associated dermatome diagrams.  Overall, this extraordinary reference app should be in the pocket of every medical student and orthopaedic, neurologic, or neurosurgical trainee.

PreviousNext

iSplint

A light-weight splinting reference designed for emergency department physicians.

iSplint has features not present in other splinting apps, including fully native videos demonstrating splint application.  The app was created by an emergency medicine physician at George Washington University, giving it credibility.  Unfortunately, the selection of splints is limited to thumb spica, triple S, radial gutter, dorsal hand, sugar tong (upper extremity), posterior ankle, and sugar tong (lower extremity).  Aside from non-traditional orthopaedic terminology for some of these splints, the application of splints are all demonstrated using fiberglass with minimal padding.  This is somewhat of a deviation from traditional orthopaedic splint application.  In addition to the video demonstration, there is a “discussion” for each splint which links to a table that offers an image of the applied splint, application tips, and provides very brief indications.  Overall, this app is focused more towards emergency department staff, as advertised.  However, orthopaedic providers should be aware of this application and consider recommending it to colleague for simple splint applications.

PreviousNext

Top Ortho “App”

Download the www.TopOrthoApps.com iPhone app!  You’re already on the website, why not have on-the-go access direct from your iPhone?  This app has all of the best Top Ortho App lists that you’re used to: Top Apps, Free Apps, iPad Apps, Journals, Sports Apps, and much more!  Full reviews and screenshots are all available for free.

This app has all of the best Top Ortho App lists that you’re used to: Top Apps, Free Apps, iPad Apps, Journals, Sports Apps, and much more!  Full reviews and screenshots are all available for free.

PreviousNext

Orthopaedic Patient Information

Very high-quality 3D anatomical models with video demonstrations of common anatomy, pathology, and treatments.

Orthopaedic Patient Information is part of the 3D4Medical’s suite of full-featured anatomy apps.  All of their apps follow a similar and intuitive format, but this one differs slightly. The relevant body part is presented with a video demonstrating the most common anatomy, conditions, and treatments.  These demonstrations are very high quality.   The level of detail and anatomical accuracy of all muscles, tendons, vessels, nerves, ligaments and bones is impressive.  Overall, the entire suite of 3D4Medical anatomy apps are the best anatomy models we have seen yet, and this patient information app is fantastic.

PreviousNext

Skeleton System Pro III

Full-featured 3D anatomy models with support for 3D rotation, various anatomy layers, cross-sectional slices, annotations, and video demonstrations.

Skeleton System Pro III is part of the 3D4Medical’s suite of full-featured anatomy apps.  All of their apps follow a similar and intuitive format. In the skeletal system, any region of the body is selected for a more focused view. The relevant body part is presented with skin covering, and different anatomical layers can then be “unwrapped” sequentially through the body.  The level of detail and anatomical accuracy of all muscles, tendons, vessels, nerves, ligaments and bones is impressive.  In addition to the different layers, the view can be manipulated freely.  All body parts can be rotated in the horizontal plan through 360 degrees rotation.  In addition, axial, coronal, and sagittal slices can be taken through various levels of each joint or body part.  The app includes “pins” which already identify every possible structure of every layer.  In addition, most of the apps in the series include videos demonstrating relevant surgical procedures or common pathologies.  These demonstrations are very high quality.  The app includes a “pen” feature for drawing on the screen, however doodles are not saved and disappear once the pen is turned off.  There is even a separate button to turn vessels on and off.  Overall, the entire suite of 3D4Medical anatomy apps are the best anatomy models we have seen yet, based on their accuracy, level of control, and video demonstrations.  Ideal for health care students and possibly even for surgical preparation.

PreviousNext

Spine Pro III

Full-featured 3D anatomy models with support for 3D rotation, various anatomy layers, cross-sectional slices, annotations, and video demonstrations.

Spine Pro III is part of the 3D4Medical’s suite of full-featured anatomy apps.  All of their apps follow a similar and intuitive format. The relevant body part is presented with skin covering, and different anatomical layers can then be “unwrapped” sequentially through the body.  The level of detail and anatomical accuracy of all muscles, tendons, vessels, nerves, ligaments and bones is impressive.  In addition to the different layers, the view can be manipulated freely.  All body parts can be rotated in the horizontal plan through 360 degrees rotation.  In addition, axial, coronal, and sagittal slices can be taken through various levels of each joint or body part.  The app includes “pins” which already identify every possible structure of every layer.  In addition, most of the apps in the series include videos demonstrating relevant surgical procedures or common pathologies.  These demonstrations are very high quality.  The app includes a “pen” feature for drawing on the screen, however doodles are not saved and disappear once the pen is turned off.  There is even a separate button to turn vessels on and off.  Overall, the entire suite of 3D4Medical anatomy apps are the best anatomy models we have seen yet, based on their accuracy, level of control, and video demonstrations.  Ideal for health care students and possibly even for surgical preparation.

Shoulder Pro III

Full-featured 3D anatomy models with support for 3D rotation, various anatomy layers, cross-sectional slices, annotations, and video demonstrations.

Shoulder Pro III is part of the 3D4Medical’s suite of full-featured anatomy apps.  All of their apps follow a similar and intuitive format.  The relevant body part is presented with skin covering, and different anatomical layers can then be “unwrapped” sequentially through the body.  The level of detail and anatomical accuracy of all muscles, tendons, vessels, nerves, ligaments and bones is impressive.  In addition to the different layers, the view can be manipulated freely.  All body parts can be rotated in the horizontal plan through 360 degrees rotation.  In addition, axial, coronal, and sagittal slices can be taken through various levels of each joint or body part.  The app includes “pins” which already identify every possible structure of every layer.  In addition, most of the apps in the series include videos demonstrating relevant surgical procedures or common pathologies.  These demonstrations are very high quality.  The app includes a “pen” feature for drawing on the screen, however doodles are not saved and disappear once the pen is turned off.  There is even a separate button to turn vessels on and off.  Overall, the entire suite of 3D4Medical anatomy apps are the best anatomy models we have seen yet, based on their accuracy, level of control, and video demonstrations.  Ideal for health care students and possibly even for surgical preparation.

PreviousNext

AAOS eBooks

Full-featured app for downloading and reading books in your AAOS bookshelf library. Text and images are all very clean and apps runs smoothly.

AAOS eBooks, that provides mobile access to titles purchased from their web-based store. As of writing, the store includes 8 popular titles, but is expected to increase to over 30 titles within the next few months.  Unfortunately purchases cannot be made directly through the app, but rather must be paid for on the website.  In addition, although the app asks users to log in via their AAOS username and password, this is an error and rather users must register at the AAOS eBookstore website (www.ebooks.aaos.org) to gain login information. After logging in, users can view the books they have purchased and can download them selectively, ranging in size from about 10-80 Mb.  Once downloaded, the text viewer has typical options, including the ability to change the font, change text size, adjust brightness, highlight text, make notes, and place bookmarks.  The annotation functions are primitive, at best, and even the instructions for highlighting require 4 separate steps each time.  The books themselves are of high quality, text is crisp, and images are clear, however the user cannot increase the image size, which often prevents fully appreciating many of the detailed illustrations.  Because books are downloaded to the device, they are accessible even without internet access, which is a valuable feature.  The app is still primitive in its feature set and title selection.  In addition, some books, such as OKU 10, already ship with a CD that includes a digital PDF version of the book, which is much easier to read and annotate using any of the popular PDF readers for mobile devices.

PreviousNext

Septic Hip

This quick-reference app is designed to use a popular clinical algorithm to assist with the diagnostic distinction between transient synovitis and septic arthritis of the hip.  The app is based on 5 clinical predictors: fever, weight-bearing, ESR, WBC (published by Kocher et al. in 1999) and CRP (added by Caird et al. in 2006).  The interface is simple and intuitive by allowing the user to select the predictors that apply to a particular patient.  By touching “next,” the user is then presented with the probability of septic arthritis as calculated by each study individually (validated), and the overall probability of septic arthritis (average of the two).  Overall, this is a simple app that offers a convenient way to utilize an existing and popular clinical diagnostic algorithm.

PreviousNext

BoneTest Miscellaneous 11

Part of an entire suite of BoneTest apps created for test review, the Miscellaneous app includes 50 questions that cover Trauma, Oncology, Basic Science, and Foot & Ankle topics.  The app is simplistically organized as a list of questions, labeled from 1-50.  There is no “test” mode or a way to randomize the question order.  Selecting any given question presents the question and answer options (standard multiple choice, true false, fill-in-the-blank, etc.) with associated images, when appropriate.  Questions and answer choices are clearly presented, but the question format does not reflect OITE or OSAS questions despite many of the questions appearing to be most appropriate for orthopaedic residents and surgeons (too advanced for students, in many cases).  One nice feature is that a brief explanation is provided for every answer choice (incorrect as well correct answers).  References have been provided for every question, but are often vague, and refer only to a book (OKU 9) without chapter or page number.  Lastly, a significant limitation of this app is that once an answer is selected, it can never be “unselected,” implying that this app is “one time use, only.”  Overall, this app is too advanced for students, but is not ideally organized for residents or surgeons by not allowing for question randomization or resetting the questions.

PreviousNext

Knee Pain

Knee Pain is an app “course” created by Dr. Eric Gozna to teach his mnemonic for the 10 most common sources of knee pain: “four thought” on the knee.  The app is actually a narrated slideshow format that auto-advances through 55 slides of informational slides that include descriptions of the anatomy, as well as information about the pathology, the presentation, the diagnosis and treatment.  Some slides include video examples of a clinical exam, and some slides include review questions to reinforce concepts and lessons.  The concept of the app is novel.  Dr. Gozna’s credentials are listed on the site (an orthopaedic surgeon in Canada), however the information presented may be more credible if endorsed by an orthopaedic society.  Overall, the presentation is clear and may be most useful to students, non-orthopaedic providers, or patients interested in learning more about knee pain in a community-based practice.

PreviousNext

Tumorpedia Soft Tissue

This app is the “Soft Tissue” version in the Tumorpedia series, a collection of apps that serve as an encyclopedia of orthopaedic oncology.  This version includes over 14 orthopaedic soft tissue tumors.  Each topic is divided into general information, incidence and demographics, xrays, MRI, CT, pathology, differential diagnosis, and treatment.  The amount of information presented for each topic is variable, but generally a specific and informative overview of the topic is included.  The images are especially useful for demonstrating “typical” appearances on imaging exams and pathologic specimens.   The app also includes an “updated” feature, suggesting that the database may undergo regular updates in the future.  It appears that images are downloaded in real-time from a server, thus the app is of limited use when no WiFi or wireless data signal is available. As a result, some of the images did not load during my testing.  Overall, this series of orthopaedic tumor information is an inexpensive and useful reference for orthopaedic trainees, nurses, and other medical providers who diagnose and treat musculoskeletal tumors.  Because this is a first version, hopefully future versions will be available with improved functionality.

PreviousNext

Tumorpedia Lite

This app is the free version in the Tumorpedia series, a collection of apps that serve as an encyclopedia of orthopaedic oncology based on www.bonetumor.org.  This version includes a selected collection of 28 orthopaedic tumors.  Each topic is divided into general information, incidence and demographics, xrays, MRI, CT, pathology, differential diagnosis, and treatment.  The amount of information presented for each topic is variable, but generally a specific and informative overview of the topic is included.  The images are especially useful for demonstrating “typical” appearances on imaging exams and pathologic specimens.   The app also includes an “updated” feature, suggesting that the database may undergo regular updates in the future.  Overall, this series of orthopaedic tumor information is a useful reference for orthopaedic trainees, nurses, and other medical providers who diagnose and treat musculoskeletal tumors.

PreviousNext

Tumorpedia Foot and Ankle

This app is the “Foot and Ankle” version in the Tumorpedia series, a collection of apps that serve as an encyclopedia of orthopaedic oncology based on www.bonetumor.org.  This version includes 23 orthopaedic foot and ankle tumors.  Each topic is divided into general information, incidence and demographics, xrays, MRI, CT, pathology, differential diagnosis, and treatment.  The amount of information presented for each topic is variable, but generally a specific and informative overview of the topic is included.  The images are especially useful for demonstrating “typical” appearances on imaging exams and pathologic specimens.   The app also includes an “updated” feature, suggesting that the database may undergo regular updates in the future.  It appears that images are downloaded in real-time from a server, thus the app is of limited use when no WiFi or wireless data signal is available. As a result, some of the images did not load during my testing.  Overall, this series of orthopaedic tumor information is an inexpensive and useful reference for orthopaedic trainees, nurses, and other medical providers who diagnose and treat musculoskeletal tumors.  Because this is a first version, hopefully future versions will be available with improved functionality.

PreviousNext

Tumorpedia Espanol

This app is the “Espanol” version in the Tumorpedia series, a collection of apps that serve as an encyclopedia of orthopaedic oncology based on www.bonetumor.org.  This version includes over 100 orthopaedic tumors with complete information in Spanish.  Each topic is divided into general information, incidence and demographics, xrays, MRI, CT, pathology, differential diagnosis, and treatment.  The amount of information presented for each topic is variable, but generally a specific and informative overview of the topic is included.  The images are especially useful for demonstrating “typical” appearances on imaging exams and pathologic specimens.   The app also includes an “updated” feature, suggesting that the database may undergo regular updates in the future.  It appears that images are downloaded in real-time from a server, thus the app is of limited use when no WiFi or wireless data signal is available. As a result, some of the images did not load during my testing.  Overall, this series of orthopaedic tumor information is an inexpensive and useful reference for orthopaedic trainees, nurses, and other medical providers who diagnose and treat musculoskeletal tumors.  Because this is a first version, hopefully future versions will be available with improved functionality.

PreviousNext

RealWorld Orthopaedics

Created by physicians and medical students at the Universite de Sherbrooke, this is one of the best musculoskeletal radiology apps available. The app is organized into subheadings: Medical, Technical, and Chapters.  Although not intuitively named, each section contains an abundance of information medical and radiology information.  For example, the Medical section includes a listing of about 150 radiographic fractures and dislocations, with each topic including 1-2 different patient cases.  Selecting a patient includes high-resolution images of the named pathology.  The most valuable and impressive part of the app, however, is the “eye” icon which overlays colorful highlighting directly over the radiograph with associated annotations (“glasses” icon) to explain the important radiographic findings.  This feature, alone, is impressive.  An information icon also links directly to reading material found in the Chapter section.  The Technical and Chapter sections include the same library of patients and images, but organized in a different way.  The most notable feature this app lacks is a “search” function that can quickly search for a fracture or dislocation of choice.  Overall, a very well-made and impressive app that would be useful to any medical student, intern, or junior resident that needs to learn about musculoskeletal radiology.

PreviousNext

iJoints

This app has taken images from the Visible Human Project ™ to recreate axial, coronal, and sagittal slice images of a cadaveric hip, knee, ankle, shoulder, elbow, and wrist.  The app was created by a board certified radiologist, and the functionality is strictly limited to anatomy identification (no added information about anatomical origins, insertion, or inervation).  Navigation is intuitive from the main menu, with joints separated by the types of slices.  Each section includes about 9-12 slices for each joint.  After selecting a slice, options include mirror image (left/right), adding/removing labels, labeling muscles, bones, vessels, or “other,” and advancing a slide. The images are very clear, and all relevant anatomy is labeled. In addition to reviewing by joint, a search function allows for the user to enter any structure and will return every slice that includes the named structure. Lastly, a quiz function also exists that is organized by joint/slice. The quiz shows an image with labelled anatomy and asks you to identify a particular structure (multiple choice). If incorrect, the user is shown the correct answer, as well as the name of the structure that was incorrectly selected. Overall, this app seems most appropriate for students learning anatomy, and especially with regard to radiology-oriented slices for 3D imaging (coronal, axial, and sagittal).  Thus, the app would be greatly beneficial for improving CT and MRI identification, but how this may transfer to surgical anatomy is not as clear.

PreviousNext

Shoulder Pain

Shoulder Pain is an app “course” created by Dr. Eric Gozna to teach his mnemonic for the six most common causes of shoulder pain: FACTSS.  The app is actually a narrated slideshow format that auto-advances through 71 slides of informational slides that include descriptions of each pathology, as well as information about the pathology, the presentation, the diagnosis and treatment.  Some slides include video examples of a clinical exam, and some slides include review questions to reinforce concepts and lessons.  The concept of the app is novel.  Dr. Gozna’s credentials are listed on the site (an orthopaedic surgeon in Canada), however the information presented may be more credible if endorsed by an orthopaedic society.  Overall, the presentation is clear and may be most useful to students, non-orthopaedic providers, or patients interested in learning more about shoulder pain in a community-based practice.

PreviousNext

iOrtho+

An-all inclusive physical exam and special test app including images, videos, and artwork to demonstrate the proper execution of each test.

This app is a comprehensive mobile orthopaedic guide that includes physical exam tests and mobilizations.  Although the app can be downloaded for free, only a limited number of exam tests and mobilizations are available until the $14.99 in-app purchase is made.  The app includes over 200 special physical exam tests, separated by body part.  For example, rotator cuff tests are divided by muscle, and subscapularis tests include lift-off (Gerber), internal rotation lag, belly press, belly-off, and bear-hug.  Each test includes a picture demonstrating the test, a brief description of the technique and interpretation, and Stat/Ref which summarizes the clinical evidence supporting the test’s sensitivity, specificity, and +/- liklihood ratios (with references provided).  A great feature is the addition of video for many of the tests.  The mobilizations section includes over 80 techniques images and descriptions.

The app underwent a recent update which now includes medical screening tests to rule out visceral pathology, impressive dermatome artwork, deep tendon reflex testing, C-spine screens such as NEXUS and Canadian spine rules, agility-functional testing for the lower extremity, and enhanced reference list to > 1100 sources, statistical data that includes clustering of ortho tests to enhance evidence-based clinical decision making.  And, if a desired test is not available, the app includes an “add your own test” section.

Overall, the app is best designed for medical students or junior residents who are learning the orthopaedic physical exam and special tests.  The app is very high quality for the extensive information and value it provides.

PreviousNext

Orthopedics Encyclopedia

This app attempts to serve as a limited orthopedic encyclopedia.  In that regard, it accomplishes its goal as a first-stop overview for a variety of broad orthopaedic conditions and diseases.  The app includes 21 topics, such as the human skeleton, clubfoot, orthotics, knee, tendon, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.  One immediately recognizes that the selection of included topics and joints seems quite arbitrary.  Selecting any individual topic, however, returns an incredibly detailed and complete description of any particular topic with a series of sub-headings and associated images.  For example, the topic “Muscle” includes subheadings such as embryology, muscle types, anatomy, physiology, nervous control, exercise, disease, atrophy, strength, efficiency, and evolution.  The data presented includes very specific information, such as the precise density of muscle or skeletal muscle metabolism at rest.  However, despite this impressive collection of data, the unusual organization of the topics and the document-like format of the information prevents easy reference of information.  Without a search function, this app offers little more  than the title suggests: a single-use orthopaedic encyclopedia, but cannot function as a versatile reference.  Overall, the app may be useful to a student interested in musculoskeletal medicine interested in reading a brief overview of a variety of orthopaedic topics.

PreviousNext

eSplint

This app is clearly a must-have guide for any primary care, urgent care, or emergency care provider by providing simple step-by-step instructions for splint application.  In addition, junior residents in musculoskeletal medicine fields, such as orthopaedic surgery or podiatry, may also find this to be a useful refresher for the application of splints.  The app is very simply organized into headings such as Splint Technique, Coaptation, Sugar Tong, etc. and provides a text and image guide for the application of each splint type.  The guide briefly lists a few indications for that particular splints, includes a text description with associated images, provides a very good brief video demonstrating application of the splint, and even includes patient education instructions for splint care!  Overall, this application is very useful to a variety of practitioners.  At such a great price, I cannot think of a reason why anyone who might need to apply a splint would not download this very simple and useful reference tool.

PreviousNext

Campbell’s Operative Orthopaedics

Campbell’s is the first orthopaedic text book that has transitioned to the digital age!  The app is not the complete 4-volume text, rather this is “core techniques,” which includes brief summaries of 242 common surgical and bedside procedures accompanied by images and videos.   The app is divided into the four volumes of the full book with their corresponding subheadings.  For example, the app includes 26 surgical approaches, such as removal of iliac bone graft, anterolateral approach to the humerus, and z-plasty.  Most descriptions are brief with 2-5 images, and would serve as a “refresher” for a senior resident or surgeon familiar with a procedure, or as an introduction for a medical student or junior resident who needs a quick orientation before a case.  However, in addition to the many brief entries, some topics are reviewed completely with 20-30 images and videos up to 15-20 minutes in length.  These videos are incredibly detailed and review how to perform full surgical procedures.  Examples of “complete” entries with videos and images include femoral nailing, ACL reconstruction, SLAP repair, rotator cuff repair, chevron osteotomy, compartment syndrome fasciotomy, shoulder hemiarthroplasty, and carpal tunnel release – I counted a total of 23 videos within the app.  Unlike many other apps that offer videos, all media is completely contained within this app and downloaded to the device, which explains the download size of over 800mb, but also has the great benefit of full access 100% of the time (i.e. review surgical techniques on an airplane).  Lastly, the app has a very good search feature that scans all topic titles and text within the app.
Overall, Campbell’s Operative Orthopaedics is the first orthopaedic text to “go digital” with an incredibly useful reference app that is ideal for junior orthopaedic surgery residents.  Although considered an expensive app at $100, compare this to list price of nearly $800 for the 4-volume print version. Of course, the app is not the complete text, but is most useful to trainees who may frequently use the app as a “refresher” between operative cases.  The interface is well designed, the images and text are clear, and the search function is invaluable.  In addition, consider that the purchase price includes ownership for life with all associated updates.  Campbell’s is a very highly recommended app for those who can afford it.

PreviousNext

CORE – Clinical Orthopedic Exam

CORE has set the standard for a clinical exam app.  Divided by body part, body region, alphabetical, favorites, or search – the app contains a database of nearly 250 clinical tests which includes a purpose, instructions, video demo, and test properties.  The most striking feature of this app, in addition to the vast collection of tests and videos, is actually the “properties” tab.  For every test, data is presented regarding the sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratio, accuracy and other relevant statistical tests based on primary literature references.  These lists are incredibly complete.  For example, the hip impingement test lists 10 primary sources with their respective sensitivities and specificities using the impingement test to detect labral tears.  In addition, by selecting the primary references the user is directed to the full literature source with the abstract text.  This is a feature that I have not seen replicated by any other orthopaedic reference.  In the basic version of the app, the videos are not contained within the app, but rather link to YouTube videos that can be emailed/shared with colleagues. However, for an in-app purchase of $7.99 all videos can be downloaded to the device (about 1GB of data).  Tests can be marked as a “favorite” and quickly reviewed at a later time.  Unfortunately, the search feature was not ideal.  When I searched “grind” there were “no results” but when I searched “Apley” I was provided with Apley’s Grind Test; however, this function is easily improved in a future update.  This app seems ideal for a medical student with an interest in musculoskeletal medicine (PM&R, sports medicine, or orthopaedic surgery) or a junior resident in any of these fields.  Overall, a very complete and useful app for trainees.

To learn more about this app, as well as others by the same developers, check out their website at www.clinicallyrelevant.com.

PreviousNext

Simple Goniometer

Part of the goniometer series developed by Ockendon.net, simple goniometer does exactly what it says: it uses the iPhone’s internal accelerometer to mimic a goniometer for clinical measurements.  The app only has three functions: set, hold, and reset.  Although accuracy depends on the calibration of your devices internal electronics, the app does what it says and allows for precise and objective measurements when a standard goniometer is unavailable.

PreviousNext

Leg.Fractures

Overall: 2+
Functionality: 3
Coolness: 2

This app was designed by physicians for providers treating lower limb injuries in the UK.  The app has 7 sections: patients, standards-1, standards-2, arterial supply, surface markings, fasciotomies, and pinning of tibia.  The first three sections describe which patients these guidelines apply to, and the “standards” section essentially lists the guidelines that should be performed for these types of patients.  The next 4 sections provide visual aids to inform the reader of the relevant anatomy in regards to the arterial supply, surface landmarks of the leg, cross-section of the leg for fasciotomies, and safe locations for ex-fix pin placement using cross-sectional slices.  Overall, the information presented is very brief yet can serve as a quick refresher for a trainee or surgeon already familiar with the procedure(s).  However, this app does not provide enough information for a student to learn much about the treatment of acute leg trauma.  This small app has valuable information but only at a superficial level and is therefore ideal as a quick reference in only very specific situations.

Cost: Free
Download Leg.Fractures Here

PreviousNext

Eponyms

Overall: 4
Functionality: 4
Coolness: 2+

This app does exactly what it advertises: it organizes and defines medical eponyms based on specialty.  The user can view all eponyms, or you can choose to sort by topic.  Orthopedics has its own heading with about 150 common eponyms for diseases, fractures, signs, and clinical exam tests.  This app may not be particularly useful to a orthopaedic provider, however for a medical student rotating on an orthopaedic service, this can be a very handy reference guide.  Explanations are very short and do not provide much detail.  However, there is a good search feature that searches the eponym title, as well as its description.  For example, searching for “supra” returns the Hawkin’s sign because the definition notes that it tests for supraspinatus tendon impingement.  The user can also mark eponyms as “favorites.”  When not limiting the search to orthopedics, the app has over 1700 eponyms!  While not the most useful to residents or surgeons, this app would be very useful to medical students or interns.

Cost: Free (for students) or $1.99
Download Eponyms Here

PreviousNext

SugarSync

Overall: 4+
Functionality: 5
Coolness: 5

SugarSync is actually a cloud-based data back-up service that includes the use of their free apps.  But, because most surgeons are probably under-protected with regard to the security of their digital data, I strongly advocate the use of some type of auto-backup service, such as SugarSync or one of its competitors.  After paying for a subscription and installing the program onto as many computers as you would like, SugarSync will automatically back up your data in real-time both to the cloud, as well as between computers.  For example, in my home I sync my two laptops so that the data between my “home” computer and my “work” computer are always matched.  Then, I also sync specific folders (such as photos) between my computers and my wife’s computer.  Copying/transferring files with flash drives and emailing document versions have become obsolete.  Lastly, because I have the app installed on my phone and my iPad, I can access any file from anywhere, any time.  That includes photos, documents, or reading material and includes the ability to email the files directly to a colleague.  The price is competitive, and the functionality has redefined the way I manage my data.  For more information, see my FAQ section.

 Cost: Free app with subscription service.
Download Here

PreviousNext

NeuroMind

Overall: 2+
Functionality: 3
Coolness: 1

This app was designed for neurosurgeons, however the content includes spine and spine trauma information that would also be valuable to orthopaedic trainees and spine surgeons.  The interface is nothing more than a listing of classification systems roughly organized by specialty such as general, motor, spine, spine trauma, tumor, and vascular.  For spine and spine trauma there are about 18 classification systems listed and selecting a topic provides the user with a text description of the classification table and a reference. There is no fancy interface design, no graphics, and no ability to save “favorites” for quick reference.  But, for someone who needs access to a list of spine classification tables, this is a free and light app to keep in your pocket.  Overall, this is probably useful to only a select group of individuals.

Cost: Free
Download Here

PreviousNext

JBJS Br Abstract Manager

This app is certainly a step in the right direction for peer-reviewed journals by allowing surgeons to search for and access content on their mobile devices.  The app continues to evolve into a more robust and usable form that suffers from occasional glitches.  The menu allows the user to browse abstracts in each journal edition and search for content using “watch words” or standard author/title/year/abstract search techniques.  The abstracts worked well for me, and allow for a review as well as the option to email the abstract to a colleague. However, the watch-word functionality was not working properly.  Once the kinks have been worked out, this may be a very useful app depending on how easy it will be for users to view and download material.  Until then, consider using other RSS feed apps, such as BoneFeed, to access the same content.

PreviousNext

Understanding Disease: Orthopedics

Overall: 2+
Functionality: 3
Coolness: 2

This app is part of a series of apps titled “Understanding Disease: XXXX.”  The “Orthopedics” version is free to download, however in-app purchases are required to view information about the subjects that are included: osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, postmenopausal osteoporosis, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.  The app is clearly marketed to patients and is likely of little use to students, trainees, or surgeons with the exception of providing material for patients to review while in a waiting room.  The limited number of subjects available for review limits the app significantly; however, an expansion could make this a potentially useful and informative app for patient education.

Cost: Free for the app; in-app purchases of $9.99 for each subject or $39.99 for all 5.
Download Here

PreviousNext

Ortho Traumapedia

Quick reference for on-call trauma related to fractures and dislocations
 

This app is the ideal complement to any student, resident, fellow, or attending taking general orthopaedic trauma call.  The app has a simple and intuitive user interface separated into either dislocations or fractures and organized by bone, joint, or region.  Each topic is then divided into the same four sub-topics: facts, image, classify, and treat.  With an easy-to-read bullet format, the user can quickly glean the most critical facts about a particular fracture, answer common “pimp” questions, understand how to interpret the radiology, and review various classification systems for a particular injury.  One of the most useful features are the images which include very clear lines, arrows, and circles overlying normal and injury radiographs to teach the user how to evaluate and interpret injury films.  Overall, the material appears to be consistent with most other orthopaedic trauma texts, although no references are provided.

PreviousNext

MedCalc

Overall: 3
Functionality: 3
Coolness: 2

Everyone needs a good medical calculator on their smartphone, and MedCalc is my personal favorite based on the plethora of built-in equations.  The app has a very intuitive interface that can be easily navigated by users with any level of experience.  In addition, equations are organized by subject, alphabetically, and allows the user to easily mark his or her “favorites” for quick reference.  Some of the most useful tools that I have found include the opioid conversion tool, the dermatome distribution map, and the ISS calculation.  The app is also offered as MedCalc Pro for iPad and includes a full-size HD version with additional resources.  At $0.99 or $4.99, this app is a good option for someone that does not yet have their favorite medical calculator app.

Cost: $0.99 for MedCalc (iPhone); $4.99 for MedCalc Pro (iPad)
Download MedCalc (iPhone) Here
Download MedCalc Pro (iPad) Here

PreviousNext

Epocrates

Overall: 4
Functionality: 4
Coolness: 2+

Epocrates continues to be the gold-standard for mobile drug-reference applications.  The app provides free medication information including dosing (both adults and pediatrics), interactions, contraindications, as well as a “pill identifier” to match a pill with its name according to shape, color, imprint, etc.  For anyone who cannot always remember the dosing and frequency of every medication, this app belongs in your pocket.  Unfortunately, Epocrates also insists on updating frequently and prompting users with “news” information that some may not find useful.  Thus, functionality is limited by the time it takes to occasionally update the app.  Otherwise, this app is a “must have” for any provider.

Cost: Free for drug reference, requires subscription for Essentials Plus with added features.
Download Here

PreviousNext

Acta Orthopaedica Journal

Overall: 4+
Functionality: 4
Coolness: 4+

Acta Orthopaedica (previously Acta Orthopaedica  Scandinavica) is the first orthopaedic journal to have developed a fully-functional mobile app utility with 100% read capability.  The app does everything one might expect from a journal app, and is even more impressive because the journal is a non-profit, Open Access journal.  Thus, all content is completely free of cost.  The app allows for access to archives as early as 1930 and allows the user to download and read the full PDF article literally within seconds.  The only missing function that would be useful is the ability to search articles.  Of course, this could be done through Google Scholar or Pubmed, but integration in the app would be an obvious enhancement.  Among its other useful features includes direct links to Google Scholar to see how many citations an article has, as well as the ability to view “Early Online” articles that may not yet be PubMed indexed.

Cost: Free
Download for iPhone Here
Download for iPad Here

PreviousNext

BoneFeed

Similar to its close relatives, HandFeed and SportsMed, this app is an RSS reader for orthopaedic-related publications.  The user can customize the feeds that are presented, including JBJS-Am, JBJS-Br, CORR, JHS-Am, Spine, JPO, and many more.  The feeds allow the user to review an abstract, view the full text article directly from the journal website (if you have online access), post comments, or share the paper via Twitter, Facebook, or email.  Overall, this app is a simple and intuitive way for orthopaedic surgeons to keep up-to-date with the latest publications 24-hours a day.

PreviousNext

AO Surgery Reference

Overall: 4+
Functionality: 4
Coolness: 3+

Created by AO and released in No­vember 2010, the AO Surgery Refer­ence app has set the bar for orthopae­dic reference apps. The data mirrors information which has been previ­ously existed at www.aosurgery.org but is formatted specifically for the smartphone. The app has an intuitive interface that walks the user through the diagnosis, decision process, prepa­ration, surgical approach, reduction, fixation, and aftercare of fractures. Additional information can be found by selecting the “info” icon next to an option, and reference articles are provided on every page. Some of the most valuable aspects, in addition to the text, are the abundance of images demonstrating fracture patterns, pa­tient positioning, and anatomy/surgi­cal approaches. Ideally, this app can serve as a quick reference while treat­ing a patient or prior to a surgery when no other references are available for review. The greatest limitation to this app is that all data is pulled from the internet in real-time, and thus a data connection (3G or WiFi) is required for the app to function. In addition, some fractures are still not available, but the app suggests that future updates will be included.

Cost: Free
Download Here

PreviousNext