Fractures: Schatzker 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: Schatzker classification

Sample item

In the Schatzker classification of tibial plateau fractures, a lateral plateau split with depression of the articular surface is which type?

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

The answer and the reasoning

A. Type II

Schatzker I is a lateral split without depression, II is a lateral split with depression, III is pure central depression, IV involves the medial plateau, V is bicondylar and VI is a bicondylar fracture with metaphyseal-diaphyseal dissociation. Type II is the commonest.

Option by option

  • A. Type II (correct)

    Correct. Lateral split plus depression is Schatzker type II.

  • B. Type IV

    Type IV is a medial plateau fracture.

  • C. Type I

    Type I is a pure lateral split without depression.

  • D. Type VI

    Type VI has dissociation of the metaphysis from the shaft.

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 A, Type II. Schatzker I is a lateral split without depression, II is a lateral split with depression, III is pure central depression, IV involves the medial plateau, V is bicondylar and VI is a bicondylar fracture with metaphyseal-diaphyseal dissociation.

Why is "Type IV" not the answer?

Type IV is a medial plateau fracture.

Why is "Type I" not the answer?

Type I is a pure lateral split without depression.

Why is "Type VI" not the answer?

Type VI has dissociation of the metaphysis from the shaft.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Fractures: Schatzker classification in Orthopaedics. Type II is the commonest.

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: Schatzker 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.