Pelvic imaging: MRI for perianal fistula: practice question

A Radiology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Radiology · Pelvic imaging: MRI for perianal fistula

Sample item

A man with recurrent perianal discharge and a previous abscess needs preoperative mapping of a complex fistula and its relation to the sphincters. Which test is best?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

D. Pelvic MRI

MRI shows the primary tract, secondary extensions and abscesses and their relation to the internal and external sphincters and levator ani, as in the Parks classification. It guides surgery and reduces recurrence.

Option by option

  • A. Plain pelvic radiograph

    A plain film shows no soft tissue tracts.

  • B. Barium enema

    A barium enema does not image perianal tracts.

  • C. Abdominal ultrasound

    Abdominal ultrasound does not image the perineum well.

  • D. Pelvic MRI (correct)

    Correct. MRI is the best test to map fistulae.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Radiology question

What is the answer to this Radiology question?

The best answer is D, Pelvic MRI. MRI shows the primary tract, secondary extensions and abscesses and their relation to the internal and external sphincters and levator ani, as in the Parks classification.

Why is "Plain pelvic radiograph" not the answer?

A plain film shows no soft tissue tracts.

Why is "Barium enema" not the answer?

A barium enema does not image perianal tracts.

Why is "Abdominal ultrasound" not the answer?

Abdominal ultrasound does not image the perineum well.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Pelvic imaging: MRI for perianal fistula in Radiology. It guides surgery and reduces recurrence.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Pelvic imaging: MRI for perianal fistula?

Learn signs with the image, and the disease they point to. Then use the flashcards and the other Radiology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.