Spine: Risser sign: 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 · Spine: Risser sign

Sample item

The Risser sign used in scoliosis assessment denotes what?

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

The answer and the reasoning

D. Ossification of the iliac apophysis as an index of skeletal maturity

The Risser sign grades ossification of the iliac crest apophysis from 0 to 5, progressing from anterolateral to posteromedial. Grade 5 indicates skeletal maturity, so low grades mean there is much growth remaining and a high risk of curve progression.

Option by option

  • A. Degree of rib hump

    Rib hump is measured by a scoliometer.

  • B. Severity of kyphosis

    Kyphosis is measured with a Cobb angle.

  • C. Angle of vertebral rotation

    Rotation is measured with the Nash-Moe method.

  • D. Ossification of the iliac apophysis as an index of skeletal maturity (correct)

    Correct. It grades iliac apophysis ossification and thus remaining growth.

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 D, Ossification of the iliac apophysis as an index of skeletal maturity. The Risser sign grades ossification of the iliac crest apophysis from 0 to 5, progressing from anterolateral to posteromedial.

Why is "Degree of rib hump" not the answer?

Rib hump is measured by a scoliometer.

Why is "Severity of kyphosis" not the answer?

Kyphosis is measured with a Cobb angle.

Why is "Angle of vertebral rotation" not the answer?

Rotation is measured with the Nash-Moe method.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Spine: Risser sign in Orthopaedics. Grade 5 indicates skeletal maturity, so low grades mean there is much growth remaining and a high risk of curve progression.

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 Spine: Risser sign?

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.