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American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Part I Examination
600 questions
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About this exam
The American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) Part I Examination is the written knowledge examination in the ABOS pathway to board certification. It is taken by eligible orthopedic surgeons, generally after completing an approved orthopedic surgery residency and meeting the Board’s application requirements. Part I is not an examination for entry into residency; it assesses the knowledge expected of a physician beginning independent practice and is a prerequisite to the later Part II process. Candidates planning for the 2027-2028 cycle should confirm eligibility and application details in current ABOS materials.
The exam covers a broad range of orthopedic knowledge, including core science and clinical decision-making across musculoskeletal care. Important review areas include orthopedic musculoskeletal anatomy and surgical approaches, bone biology and fracture healing, graft principles, biomechanics and implant design, and pathology and musculoskeletal tumor biology. Preparation is demanding because candidates must connect foundational concepts to diagnosis and management, not simply memorize isolated facts. Build a longitudinal study plan, revisit weaker subjects, and check the current ABOS exam blueprint and candidate information for the applicable structure and logistics.
How to prepare for the ABOS Part I Examination
- Use the current ABOS blueprint or candidate materials to map study time across the exam’s major knowledge areas; give focused review to anatomy, bone biology, fracture healing, biomechanics, implants, and musculoskeletal pathology.
- Study concepts alongside clinical applications: for example, connect fracture-healing principles to treatment choices and implant biomechanics to fixation decisions. Use timed multiple-choice sets to practice applying knowledge under exam conditions, then review why each option is right or wrong.
- Plan repeated, spaced review rather than a last-minute reading sprint. Track missed concepts by topic, revisit them in a weekly schedule, and verify eligibility, exam format, and logistics with official ABOS resources because requirements can change.
FAQ
Who is eligible to take the ABOS Part I Examination?
It is intended for candidates pursuing ABOS board certification who meet the Board’s current application and training requirements. Most U.S. candidates complete an approved orthopedic surgery residency before applying. Check the current ABOS candidate materials for eligibility details and any pathway-specific requirements.
What is the format of the ABOS Part I Examination?
Part I is a written, computer-based examination using multiple-choice questions. Candidates should consult the current ABOS exam information for the applicable blueprint, testing arrangements, and other logistics, which may be updated.
What subjects should I study for the ABOS Part I Examination?
Review the full range of orthopedic basic science and clinical knowledge. Key areas include musculoskeletal anatomy, surgical approaches, bone biology, fracture healing, grafts, biomechanics, implant design, pathology, and musculoskeletal tumors. Use the current ABOS blueprint to guide the depth and balance of your review.