Free practice question 2 of 20 · Basic science
An original single best answer question in the style of the FRCS (Tr & Orth) Section 1 paper, with the answer and a referenced explanation. Pick an answer to reveal it, then rate how sure you were.
A 24-year-old footballer asks how the bioabsorbable polylactide interference screw used to fix his anterior cruciate ligament graft will disappear from the tibial tunnel.
By which process is the polymer primarily broken down in the body?
Topic guide
Basic science: what the exam tests
Syllabus coverage, high-yield themes and the common traps.
Free article
The stress–strain curve and the material properties of orthopaedic biomaterials
The stress–strain curve for FRCS (Tr & Orth): Young’s modulus, yield, ultimate strength, toughness, fatigue and viscoelasticity, applied to metals, polyethylene, cement and ceramics.
Free article
Fracture healing and Perren’s strain theory: absolute and relative stability
Primary and secondary bone healing, the stages of callus, Perren’s interfragmentary strain theory, and how to choose absolute or relative stability for a fracture.
Interactive 3D
Knee ligaments
The knee in flexion from the front with the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments, the medial and lateral collateral ligaments and the menisci.
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