Abstract des Autors

A specialistic orthopedic examination has not been implemented by the Italian law "Tutela sanitaria delle attivit� sportive" in the routine medical screening of subjects participating in athletic activities. The physician responsible for certification of eligibility in Italy (the specialist in Sports Medicine) has, in fact, achieved a sufficient knowledge of those pathologic situations in the orthopedic area, that may inhibit athletes from competitions and training. However, the Italian Society of Sports Traumatology intended to produce statements concerning the "Protocols and criteria of eligibility of athletes" with the purpose to give the appropriate directions in case of orthopedic and traumatological diseases. The present statements intend to support the professional activity of the physicians operating in the Sports Medicine area and to provide athletes with official and entrusted criteria of eligibility. Verf.-Referat