Publications
Explore a selection of groundbreaking research and expert articles by the team at The Combo Clinic. Our work, led by Professors Ernest Schilders and Rowena Johnson, focuses on advancing the understanding and treatment of sports injuries, particularly groin, hip, and hamstring issues. Browse through our publications to stay informed on the latest developments in sports medicine and injury management, and how our innovative approaches are helping elite athletes achieve optimal recovery and performance.
Correlation Between a 3-Step MRI Assessment and Surgical Findings in Classifying Pyramidalis-Anterior Pubic Ligament-Adductor Longus Complex (PLAC) Injuries in 161 Athletes: Validation of Application of the PLAC Classification System
Adductor avulsions are complex injuries often involving multiple structures, as indicated by several magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies. However, no studies have compared MRI assessments using a dedicated groin protocol with surgical findings. It was hypothesized that MRI assessments using a dedicated groin protocol would correlate closely with surgical findings, applicable to both experienced and novice users of the pyramidalis-anterior pubic ligament-adductor longus complex (PLAC) classification. © 2025. The Author(s).
Proximal adductor avulsions are rarely isolated but usually involve injury to the PLAC and pectineus: descriptive MRI findings in 145 athletes
The purpose of the study is to review the MRI findings in a cohort of athletes who sustained acute traumatic avulsions of the adductor longus fibrocartilaginous entheses, and to investigate related injuries namely the pyramidalis-anterior pubic ligament-adductor longus complex (PLAC). Associated muscle and soft tissue injuries were also assessed. The MRIs were reviewed for a partial or complete avulsion of the adductor longus fibrocartilage, as well as continuity or separation of the adductor longus from the pyramidalis. The presence of a concurrent partial pectineus tear was noted. Demographic data were analysed. Linear and logistic regression was used to examine associations between injuries. © 2020. The Author(s).
The pyramidalis-anterior pubic ligament-adductor longus complex (PLAC) and its role with adductor injuries: a new anatomical concept
Adductor longus injuries are complex. The conflict between views in the recent literature and various nineteenth-century anatomy books regarding symphyseal and perisymphyseal anatomy can lead to difficulties in MRI interpretation and treatment decisions. The aim of the study is to systematically investigate the pyramidalis muscle and its anatomical connections with adductor longus and rectus abdominis, to elucidate injury patterns occurring with adductor avulsions. © 2017. The Author(s).