ABFAS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield ABFAS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which ABFAS certification track is most directly advanced by completing a reconstructive rearfoot/ankle fellowship? → RRA (Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle) board certification
2. In managing a patient with suspected pulmonary embolism after foot and ankle surgery, which scoring system is commonly used to assess pre-test probability? → Wells PE Clinical Prediction Rule
3. Which online portal do ABFAS diplomates use to track and submit their CME credits and renewal documentation? → The ABFAS diplomate portal on the ABFAS website
4. A patient develops compartment syndrome of the foot postoperatively. Which clinical finding is MOST reliable for diagnosis? → Pain out of proportion to the injury with passive stretch of toes
5. An ABFAS diplomate who holds dual credentials (CCFAS and CRRFA) must complete CME for renewal. Which statement is most accurate? → CME must cover both credential areas but requirements may overlap
6. Acute gout most commonly affects which joint of the foot? → First metatarsophalangeal joint
7. A surgeon performs a Weil osteotomy for metatarsalgia. In which direction is the metatarsal head translated? → Proximally and dorsally
8. What kind of online resources does ABFAS offer to its members? → Interactive practice exams and guidelines
9. A foot and ankle surgeon is approached by a journalist wanting to discuss a high-profile patient's case. The surgeon should: → Decline to comment and protect patient confidentiality entirely
10. When is negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT/VAC) most indicated in the postoperative management of foot and ankle wounds? → For complex wounds with significant tissue defects or impaired healing
11. What is the purpose of transmission-based precautions? → To provide additional protection for patients with specific infections
12. Freiberg's infraction (avascular necrosis) most commonly affects which metatarsal head? → Second
13. Which metatarsal is most commonly involved in a stress fracture due to its rigid articulation and reduced mobility? → Second metatarsal
14. Which local anesthetic toxicity manifests as circumoral numbness, metallic taste, and tinnitus, and represents early CNS toxicity? → Systemic local anesthetic toxicity (LAST)
15. A new podiatric surgical resident wants to understand how their training will prepare them for ABFAS certification. Which resource should they prioritize? → The ABFAS Candidate Handbook and CPME residency training requirements
16. Which radiographic parameter is used to quantify the severity of hallux valgus on a weight-bearing AP foot radiograph? → Hallux abductus angle
17. When assessing subtalar joint range of motion, what is considered the normal ratio of inversion to eversion? → 3:1
18. Which environmental factor in the operating room most significantly reduces airborne contamination during foot and ankle surgery? → Positive-pressure laminar airflow ventilation with HEPA filtration
19. A podiatric surgery note includes the phrase 'patient tolerated procedure well' without further detail. This type of documentation is considered: → Boilerplate language that may not reflect the actual encounter
20. What is the correct sequence for a physical assessment? → Inspection, palpation, percussion, auscultation
21. On a Harris mat imprint, a patient with pes planus shows lateral column overload. Which associated deformity should be evaluated? → Forefoot supinatus
22. Which of the following is a typical feature of a foot and ankle surgery fellowship program? → Mentorship and direct supervision by experienced surgeons
23. Which of the following is the ABFAS's stated rationale for requiring credential renewal and Continuous Certification? → To ensure diplomates remain current with evolving surgical knowledge and standards
24. Which of the following describes the normal foot pronation-supination axis of the subtalar joint? → Oblique axis passing medially, anteriorly, and superiorly
25. What is the primary mechanism by which aminoglycosides cause nephrotoxicity? → Accumulation in proximal tubular cells causing oxidative damage
26. What is the ethical obligation regarding continuing education? → Maintaining current knowledge and competence throughout ones career
27. A fellowship candidate applying for ABFAS board certification must have completed a residency program approved by which entity? → CPME
28. What is the single most effective method for preventing the spread of infection? → Proper hand hygiene
29. The Lisfranc ligament connects which two structures? → Medial cuneiform to second metatarsal base
30. Which skin lesion on the plantar foot is characterized by interrupted skin lines and central black dots? → Verruca plantaris (plantar wart)