Fractures and dislocations: indication to fix a midshaft clavicle fracture: practice question

A Orthopaedics 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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Orthopaedics · Fractures and dislocations: indication to fix a midshaft clavicle fracture

Sample item

Most midshaft clavicle fractures are treated in a sling. Which finding is an indication for urgent surgery?

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

The answer and the reasoning

B. Bone end tenting and threatening the skin

Skin tenting that threatens to break through, an open fracture, and neurovascular compromise are urgent indications for fixation of a clavicle fracture. Pain, swelling and later callus are expected and do not require surgery.

Option by option

  • A. Swelling over the fracture

    Swelling reflects the haematoma and is not a surgical indication.

  • B. Bone end tenting and threatening the skin (correct)

    Correct. Skin that is about to be breached by the bone end must be relieved surgically.

  • C. A palpable bump of callus at 8 weeks

    A bump is normal callus and is often cosmetic only.

  • D. Pain on arm movement

    Pain is expected after any fracture and settles with a sling and analgesia.

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 Orthopaedics question

What is the answer to this Orthopaedics question?

The best answer is B, Bone end tenting and threatening the skin. Skin tenting that threatens to break through, an open fracture, and neurovascular compromise are urgent indications for fixation of a clavicle fracture.

Why is "Swelling over the fracture" not the answer?

Swelling reflects the haematoma and is not a surgical indication.

Why is "A palpable bump of callus at 8 weeks" not the answer?

A bump is normal callus and is often cosmetic only.

Why is "Pain on arm movement" not the answer?

Pain is expected after any fracture and settles with a sling and analgesia.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Fractures and dislocations: indication to fix a midshaft clavicle fracture in Orthopaedics. Pain, swelling and later callus are expected and do not require surgery.

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 Fractures and dislocations: indication to fix a midshaft clavicle fracture?

Pair each fracture with its classic complication and nerve injured. Then use the flashcards and the other Orthopaedics 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.