1. General Principles & Basic Science MCQs

When performing a volar (Henry) approach to the proximal radius, the surgeon supinates the forearm to protect the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN). This maneuver displaces the PIN in which direction relative to the surgical field?

When utilizing an anterolateral approach for minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) of the distal tibia, the superficial peroneal nerve must be identified. Where does this nerve typically pierce the crural fascia to become subcutaneous?

The Smith-Petersen (anterior) approach to the hip utilizes a true internervous plane. Which two nerves supply the muscles that form the superficial interval of this approach?

In the setting of a high-energy knee dislocation, the popliteal artery is at high risk for traction injury. Which two anatomical structures firmly tether the popliteal artery proximally and distally, predisposing it to intimal tearing?

When performing a deltoid-splitting approach for a proximal humerus fracture, the axillary nerve is at risk of iatrogenic injury. On average, at what distance distal to the lateral edge of the acromion does the axillary nerve cross the humerus?

During a posterior approach to the humeral shaft, the radial nerve is identified in the spiral groove. At what approximate distance proximal to the lateral epicondyle does the radial nerve cross the posterior aspect of the humerus?

During an anterior (Henry) approach to the proximal radius, the supinator muscle must be elevated. To protect the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN), the supinator should be detached from its insertion and reflected laterally. The PIN enters the supinator beneath a fibrous arch known as the Arcade of Frohse. Which structure forms this arcade?

A 30-year-old male sustains an acetabular fracture (posterior wall and column) with associated posterior hip dislocation. He undergoes successful closed reduction. Post-reduction, he reports numbness and tingling in his foot and weakness in ankle dorsiflexion. Which nerve is most likely injured?

Which type of knee dislocation is most commonly associated with a popliteal artery injury?

A 72-year-old male with a history of Parkinson's disease sustains a comminuted, displaced intertrochanteric hip fracture. What is the most critical consideration for his post-operative management?

Which of the following is considered an absolute contraindication to closed reduction of a knee dislocation?

A 6-year-old child presents with a swollen, painful knee following a fall. She is febrile (39°C) and unable to bear weight. Physical exam reveals warmth, erythema, and exquisite tenderness to palpation of the knee. What is the most appropriate immediate diagnostic and therapeutic step?

A 75-year-old male with a comminuted intertrochanteric hip fracture is medically optimized for surgery. Which of the following is the most appropriate strategy for venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis in this patient?

A 60-year-old diabetic male with peripheral neuropathy presents with a traumatic ulcer on the sole of his foot that extends to bone. X-rays show adjacent osteolysis and periosteal reaction. He is afebrile. What is the most appropriate initial management step?

A 20-year-old male sustains a complete transection of the common peroneal nerve due to a laceration just below the fibular head. According to Seddon's classification, this type of nerve injury is a:

A 60-year-old male undergoes open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of a tibial pilon fracture. Four weeks post-operatively, he develops fever, localized pain, erythema, and purulent drainage from the surgical incision. What is the most accurate diagnostic test for osteomyelitis?

For exposure of the posterior column and posterior wall of the acetabulum, which surgical approach is most commonly utilized?

In a case of Ewing's Sarcoma of the proximal femur in a young adolescent, what surgical challenge is paramount in limb salvage planning?

A 60-year-old male undergoes closed reduction of a posterior hip dislocation 8 hours after injury. Post-reduction radiographs show a concentric reduction. He complains of persistent pain and numbness in the lateral aspect of his calf and weakness in foot dorsiflexion. Which nerve is most likely injured?

A 28-year-old male sustains an anterior hip dislocation after a motor vehicle accident. On physical examination, his hip is externally rotated, abducted, and slightly flexed. What associated nerve injury should be specifically assessed?