Fractures: Mason classification: 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: Mason classification

Sample item

Which radial head fracture is Mason type II?

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

The answer and the reasoning

B. Displaced marginal fracture of more than 2 mm involving part of the head

Mason type I is undisplaced, type II is a displaced partial (marginal) fracture, type III is comminuted involving the whole head, and type IV (Johnston) adds elbow dislocation. Type II may need fixation if it blocks forearm rotation.

Option by option

  • A. Radial head fracture with elbow dislocation

    This is the Johnston addition, type IV.

  • B. Displaced marginal fracture of more than 2 mm involving part of the head (correct)

    Correct. Type II is a displaced partial head fracture.

  • C. Undisplaced fracture

    This is Mason type I.

  • D. Comminuted fracture of the whole head

    This is Mason type III.

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, Displaced marginal fracture of more than 2 mm involving part of the head. Mason type I is undisplaced, type II is a displaced partial (marginal) fracture, type III is comminuted involving the whole head, and type IV (Johnston) adds elbow dislocation.

Why is "Radial head fracture with elbow dislocation" not the answer?

This is the Johnston addition, type IV.

Why is "Undisplaced fracture" not the answer?

This is Mason type I.

Why is "Comminuted fracture of the whole head" not the answer?

This is Mason type III.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Fractures: Mason classification in Orthopaedics. Type II may need fixation if it blocks forearm rotation.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as a multi-step question: it asks you to combine more than one idea. 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: Mason classification?

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.