Trauma Practice Questions

Q: Complications of Colles' fracture include the following except:

Rupture of Extensor Pollicis Brevis tendon. **Explanation:** The correct answer is **A. Rupture of Extensor Pollicis Brevis (EPB) tendon**. In Colles' fracture, the most common tendon injury is the rupture of the **Extensor Pollicis Longus (EPL)**, not the EPB. This occurs because the EPL tendon winds around **Lister’s tubercle** on the dorsal aspect of the radius. Following a fracture, the tendon can undergo attrition due to friction against irregular bone fragments or ischemia caused by pressure within the intact extensor retinaculum. This typically occurs 4–8 weeks post-injury (delayed rupture). **Analysis of other options:** * **B. Rupture of Extensor Pollicis Longus:** This is a classic late complication. It is often painless and results in the inability to extend the distal phalanx of the thumb. * **C. Malunion:** This is the **most common complication** of Colles' fracture. It leads to the characteristic "Dinner Fork Deformity" due to residual dorsal tilt and radial shortening. * **D. Sudeck’s Osteodystrophy (CRPS Type 1):** This is a well-known complication characterized by pain, swelling, and vasomotor instability. It is often triggered by a tight cast or excessive pain during immobilization. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Most common complication:** Malunion. * **Most common nerve involved:** Median nerve (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome). * **Surgical treatment for EPL rupture:** Tendon transfer (usually using the Extensor Indicis Proprius). * **Dinner Fork Deformity:** Caused by dorsal displacement, dorsal tilt, and lateral tilt of the distal fragment.

Q: A 65-year-old male presents with a history of distal radius fracture treated surgically one year ago. He now complains of decreased range of motion and pain in his metacarpophalangeal joints. What is the most likely diagnosis causing stiffness of the finger?

Stiffness of fingers due to immobilization or scarring. **Explanation:** The correct answer is **Stiffness of fingers due to immobilization or scarring**. In elderly patients, distal radius fractures (like Colles' fracture) are frequently complicated by finger stiffness. This occurs due to prolonged immobilization, edema, or scarring of the extensor tendons and joint capsules. Even if the fracture is treated surgically, failure to initiate early active finger mobilization leads to adhesions. The metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints are particularly prone to stiffness in extension if not exercised regularly during the healing phase. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **A & B (Malunion/Non-union):** While these are complications of distal radius fractures, they primarily affect the wrist joint's alignment and strength. They do not directly cause MCP joint stiffness unless associated with prolonged disuse. * **C (Sudeck’s Osteodystrophy/CRPS):** While CRPS causes finger stiffness, it is typically characterized by intense, out-of-proportion pain, vasomotor changes (swelling, temperature changes, sweating), and trophic skin changes. The question describes a more localized stiffness and pain typical of post-traumatic/post-surgical immobilization. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Prevention:** The most important step in managing distal radius fractures is to encourage **"full range of finger movements"** from day one, regardless of the treatment modality (cast or surgery). * **Shoulder-Hand Syndrome:** A known complication where stiffness involves the shoulder and the hand simultaneously following a wrist fracture. * **Colles' Fracture Complications:** The most common complication is **stiffness** (shoulder, elbow, or fingers), while the most common "deformity" is malunion (Dinner fork deformity). The most common nerve involved is the **Median nerve**.

Q: A 34-year-old male presents with a femur shaft fracture. Four days after the injury, he develops petechiae over his chest. What is the most probable diagnosis?

Fat embolism. ### Explanation **Correct Option: A. Fat Embolism** The clinical presentation of a **femur shaft fracture** followed by a "latent period" (typically 24–72 hours) and the development of **petechiae** is classic for **Fat Embolism Syndrome (FES)**. * **Pathophysiology:** Mechanical trauma to long bones causes the release of fat globules from the bone marrow into the systemic circulation. These globules cause mechanical obstruction and trigger a biochemical inflammatory response (free fatty acids damaging the endothelium). * **The Triad:** FES is characterized by the classic triad of: 1. **Respiratory distress** (Hypoxemia/Dyspnea) 2. **Neurological symptoms** (Confusion/Altered sensorium) 3. **Petechial rash** (typically over the chest, axilla, and conjunctiva). The rash is pathognomonic but occurs in only 20–50% of cases. **Why other options are incorrect:** * **B. Air Embolism:** Usually occurs due to iatrogenic causes (central line insertion) or diving accidents (decompression sickness). It presents suddenly, not 4 days post-fracture. * **C. Thrombocytopenia:** While FES can cause a drop in platelet count (due to sequestration), isolated thrombocytopenia does not explain the context of a long bone fracture and the specific distribution of petechiae seen here. * **D. Hypocomplementemia:** This refers to low complement levels, typically seen in autoimmune diseases (like SLE) or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis; it has no association with trauma. **High-Yield Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Gurd’s Criteria:** Used for diagnosis (Major: Petechiae, Respiratory symptoms, CNS involvement). * **Snowstorm Appearance:** The characteristic finding on a Chest X-ray (diffuse bilateral infiltrates). * **Treatment:** Primarily **supportive** (Oxygenation/Ventilation). Early stabilization and fixation of the fracture is the best preventive measure. * **Most common site for Petechiae:** Axilla and Chest.

Q: Bryant's triangle is useful in the diagnosis of which of the following conditions except?

Infratrochanteric shortening. **Explanation** **Bryant’s triangle** is a clinical topographic measurement used to assess the position of the **Greater Trochanter (GT)** relative to the pelvis. It is specifically designed to detect **supratrochanteric shortening** (shortening occurring above the level of the trochanter). 1. **Why "Infratrochanteric shortening" is the correct answer:** Infratrochanteric shortening refers to a decrease in limb length due to pathologies below the greater trochanter, such as a fracture of the femoral shaft. Since Bryant’s triangle only measures the distance between the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and the GT, it remains unaffected by distal pathology. Therefore, it is **not** useful for diagnosing infratrochanteric shortening. 2. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Supratrochanteric shortening:** This is the primary indication for Bryant's triangle. Conditions like a fracture of the neck of the femur or Perthes disease cause the GT to move superiorly, shortening the horizontal base of the triangle. * **Anterior & Posterior hip dislocation:** In any hip dislocation, the head of the femur is displaced from the acetabulum, causing the GT to shift its position relative to the ASIS. This alters the dimensions of the triangle, making it a useful diagnostic tool for these displacements. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Construction:** The triangle is formed by: 1. A perpendicular line dropped from the **ASIS** to the bed. 2. A line from the **ASIS to the GT** (Hypotenuse). 3. A horizontal line from the **GT** to the perpendicular line (The **Base**). * **High-Yield Fact:** A **shortened base** of Bryant’s triangle is a classic sign of **Intracapsular Fracture Neck of Femur**. * **Schoemaker’s Line:** Another test for supratrochanteric shortening; if the GT is displaced upward, the line passing through the GT and ASIS will pass *below* the umbilicus (normally it passes above).

Q: Which of the following is NOT true regarding fracture neck of femur?

Meyer's procedure. **Explanation:** The question asks for the option **NOT** associated with the management of a fracture of the neck of the femur. **Why Meyer’s Procedure is the Correct Answer:** **Meyer’s procedure** is a muscle-pedicle bone grafting technique (using the quadratus femoris muscle) specifically used for **non-union** of the femoral neck or to revascularize the head in cases of Avascular Necrosis (AVN). It is not a primary treatment modality for an acute fracture of the neck of the femur. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **McMurray’s Osteotomy:** This is a displacement osteotomy (medial displacement) used historically to treat ununited fractures of the neck of the femur by converting shearing forces into compressive forces. * **Smith-Peterson (SP) Nail:** This was the first internal fixation device (a triflanged nail) used for the fixation of femoral neck fractures. While largely replaced by Cannulated Cancellous (CC) screws or DHS today, it remains a classic association in orthopaedic history. * **Russell’s Traction:** This is a type of skin traction used pre-operatively in femoral neck fractures to immobilize the limb, relieve muscle spasms, and maintain alignment. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** 1. **Pauwels’ Classification:** Based on the angle of the fracture line (higher angle = more instability/shearing). 2. **Garden’s Classification:** Based on the degree of displacement (Stage I-IV); crucial for deciding between fixation (younger patients) and replacement (elderly). 3. **Blood Supply:** The **Medial Circumflex Femoral Artery** is the most important source; its disruption leads to the high incidence of AVN. 4. **Clinical Presentation:** The affected limb is typically **shortened and externally rotated.**

Q: Which is the most common site of pelvic apophyseal avulsion fractures?

Ischial tuberosity. **Explanation:** Pelvic apophyseal avulsion fractures occur primarily in adolescent athletes (ages 14–25) due to sudden, forceful muscle contractions against an open growth plate (apophysis). **1. Why Ischial Tuberosity is Correct:** The **ischial tuberosity** is the most common site for these injuries. It serves as the origin for the **hamstring muscle group** (biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus). Forceful hip flexion with an extended knee (e.g., sprinting, hurdling, or kicking) puts immense tension on this apophysis, leading to avulsion. **2. Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Anterior Superior Iliac Spine (ASIS):** Origin of the **Sartorius** muscle and Tensor Fasciae Latae. It is the second most common site, typically injured during hip extension. * **Anterior Inferior Iliac Spine (AIIS):** Origin of the **Rectus Femoris** (straight head). It is frequently injured during forceful kicking. * **Lesser Trochanter:** Insertion of the **Iliopsoas** muscle. While a common site for avulsion in adolescents, it is less frequent than the ischial tuberosity. *Note: In adults, an isolated lesser trochanter fracture is highly suspicious for a pathological fracture (metastasis).* **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Mechanism:** Sudden "pop" sensation followed by localized pain. * **Management:** Most are treated **conservatively** (rest, protected weight-bearing). Surgery is only considered if displacement is >2 cm. * **Radiology:** May show "exuberant callus" during healing, which can sometimes be mistaken for a bone tumor (e.g., Osteosarcoma). * **Order of Frequency:** Ischial Tuberosity > ASIS > AIIS.

Q: What is true about compartment syndrome?

Pain on passive movement. **Explanation:** Compartment syndrome occurs when increased interstitial pressure within a closed osteofascial compartment compromises local tissue perfusion. **Why Option D is Correct:** **Pain on passive stretching** of the muscles within the affected compartment is the **earliest and most sensitive clinical sign**. This occurs because stretching ischemic muscle fibers triggers intense nociceptive signaling before permanent nerve or muscle damage occurs. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Option A:** While it can occur in open fractures, it is actually **more common in closed fractures**. In closed injuries, the intact skin and fascia act as a container that traps hematoma and edema, rapidly increasing internal pressure. * **Option B:** **Absence of pulses (Pulselessness) is a late and ominous sign.** Since the intracompartmental pressure required to cause ischemia is usually lower than systolic arterial pressure, the distal pulse often remains palpable until irreversible damage (necrosis) has occurred. * **Option C:** It is **not "never" seen** in open injuries. Even if the skin is broken, the deep fascia may remain intact, or the wound may be too small to decompress the entire compartment. **NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls:** * **The 6 P’s:** Pain (out of proportion), Pallor, Paresthesia, Pulselessness, Paralysis, and Poikilothermia. * **Diagnosis:** Primarily clinical. However, a **Delta pressure** (Diastolic BP minus Compartment pressure) of **≤ 30 mmHg** is diagnostic. * **Most common site:** Deep posterior and anterior compartments of the leg (tibia fractures). * **Treatment:** Emergency **fasciotomy** (leaving the wound open). * **Volkmann’s Ischemic Contracture:** The end-stage result of untreated compartment syndrome in the forearm.

Q: A patient presents with a fracture of the femur. On the 3rd day of admission, he develops breathlessness. What is the most probable diagnosis?

Pulmonary embolism. ### **Explanation** The most probable diagnosis in this scenario is **Pulmonary Embolism (PE)**. **1. Why Pulmonary Embolism is correct:** Patients with long bone fractures (like the femur) or pelvic fractures are at a high risk of **Venous Thromboembolism (VTE)** due to the triad of Virchow: stasis (immobilization), vascular injury, and a hypercoagulable state. While Fat Embolism Syndrome (FES) typically occurs within 24–72 hours, Pulmonary Thromboembolism is a major cause of sudden breathlessness in orthopedic patients during the first week of admission. In the context of NEET-PG questions, sudden respiratory distress following a femur fracture—if Fat Embolism is not an option or if the timeline fits—strongly points toward PE. **2. Why the other options are incorrect:** * **ARDS:** While ARDS causes breathlessness, it is usually a complication of sepsis, massive aspiration, or severe trauma. It presents with diffuse infiltrates on X-ray, which is not the primary suspicion here unless preceded by a specific trigger. * **PAH:** This is a chronic hemodynamic condition, not an acute post-traumatic event. * **Neurogenic Shock:** This occurs due to spinal cord injury, leading to bradycardia and hypotension. It does not typically present as isolated breathlessness on the 3rd day. **3. Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Fat Embolism Syndrome (FES):** Look for the classic triad: **Dyspnea, Confusion (altered sensorium), and Petechial rashes** (usually in the axilla/conjunctiva). * **Timeline:** FES usually appears within **24–72 hours**; Thromboembolism can occur anytime but is common after the first few days of immobilization. * **Gold Standard Investigation:** CT Pulmonary Angiography (CTPA) is the investigation of choice for PE. * **Prophylaxis:** Early mobilization and prophylactic anticoagulation (LMWH) are critical in femur fracture management to prevent these complications.

Q: A 54-year-old male patient sustained a right upper limb injury in a road traffic accident and presented to the emergency room unable to move his right arm. Radiographic findings are shown. Which of the following nerves is most likely injured?

Axillary nerve. ***Axillary nerve*** - **Anterior shoulder dislocation** or **surgical neck of humerus fracture** commonly injures the axillary nerve due to its anatomical course around the surgical neck. - Injury results in **deltoid muscle paralysis** (inability to abduct arm) and **loss of sensation** over the lateral shoulder (regimental badge area). *Radial nerve* - Most commonly injured with **midshaft humerus fractures** due to its spiral course in the radial groove. - Causes **wrist drop** (inability to extend wrist) and **weakness of finger extension**, not complete arm immobility. *Ulnar nerve* - Typically injured with **medial epicondyle fractures** or **elbow trauma** affecting the cubital tunnel. - Results in **claw hand deformity** and **weakness of intrinsic hand muscles**, preserving shoulder and arm movement. *Median nerve* - Commonly injured in **supracondylar fractures** of the humerus or **carpal tunnel syndrome**. - Causes **ape thumb deformity** and **thenar muscle weakness**, but does not affect shoulder or arm movement.

Question 1

What is the best treatment for a 3-week-old fracture of the femoral shaft with nonunion?

Accepted Answer

Bone graft with internal fixation

Answer

External fixation

Answer

Internal fixation only

Answer

Prosthesis

Question 2

Complications of Colles' fracture include the following except:

Accepted Answer

Rupture of Extensor Pollicis Brevis tendon

Answer

Rupture of Extensor Pollicis Longus Tendon

Answer

Malunion

Answer

Sudek's osteodystrophy

Question 3

A 65-year-old male presents with a history of distal radius fracture treated surgically one year ago. He now complains of decreased range of motion and pain in his metacarpophalangeal joints. What is the most likely diagnosis causing stiffness of the finger?

Accepted Answer

Stiffness of fingers due to immobilization or scarring

Answer

Malunion of the distal radius fracture

Answer

Non-union of the distal radius fracture

Answer

Sudeck's osteodystrophy (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome)

Question 4

A 34-year-old male presents with a femur shaft fracture. Four days after the injury, he develops petechiae over his chest. What is the most probable diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Fat embolism

Answer

Air embolism

Answer

Thrombocytopenia

Answer

Hypocomplimentemia

Question 5

Bryant's triangle is useful in the diagnosis of which of the following conditions except?

Accepted Answer

Infratrochanteric shortening

Answer

Supratrochanteric shortening

Answer

Anterior hip dislocation

Answer

Posterior hip dislocation

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT true regarding fracture neck of femur?

Accepted Answer

Meyer's procedure

Answer

MC Murray osteotomy

Answer

Smith Peterson nail

Answer

Russel traction

Question 7

Which is the most common site of pelvic apophyseal avulsion fractures?

Accepted Answer

Ischial tuberosity

Answer

Lesser trochanter

Answer

Anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS)

Answer

Anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS)

Question 8

What is true about compartment syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Pain on passive movement

Answer

Common in open lower limb fractures

Answer

Absence of pulses is an early sign

Answer

Never seen in open injuries

Question 9

A patient presents with a fracture of the femur. On the 3rd day of admission, he develops breathlessness. What is the most probable diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Pulmonary embolism

Answer

ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome)

Answer

PAH (Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension)

Answer

Neurogenic shock

Question 10

A 54-year-old male patient sustained a right upper limb injury in a road traffic accident and presented to the emergency room unable to move his right arm. Radiographic findings are shown. Which of the following nerves is most likely injured?

Accepted Answer

Axillary nerve

Answer

Radial nerve

Answer

Ulnar nerve

Answer

Median nerve

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