Trauma Practice Questions

Q: In third-degree burns, which of the following findings is typically absent?

Pain. ### Explanation The correct answer is **A. Pain**. **Why Pain is Absent:** Third-degree burns (Full-thickness burns) involve the destruction of the entire epidermis and dermis, extending into the subcutaneous fat [1]. The key anatomical reason for the absence of pain is the **complete destruction of sensory nerve endings** (nociceptors) and cutaneous nerves located within the dermal layer. While the area of the third-degree burn itself is anesthetic (numb) [1], the patient may still experience pain from surrounding first- or second-degree burns. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **B. Vesicles (Blisters):** These are characteristic of **second-degree (partial-thickness) burns**, where fluid accumulates between the epidermis and dermis. In third-degree burns, the tissue is too deeply damaged to form typical fluid-filled vesicles; instead, the surface is dry. * **C. Leathery skin:** This is a hallmark of third-degree burns. The skin becomes tough, inelastic, and "leathery" (often called **eschar**) due to the coagulation of dermal proteins [1]. * **D. Reddish discoloration:** While third-degree burns can appear charred (black) or pearly white, they can also show a dull reddish-brown hue [1]. This is not due to active capillary refill (which is absent) but due to **hemoglobin infiltration** from lysed red blood cells in thrombosed superficial vessels. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Rule of Nines:** Used to estimate the Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) involved in burns. * **Depth Classification:** * *1st Degree:* Epidermis only (e.g., sunburn); painful, no blisters. * *2nd Degree (Superficial):* Painful, blisters present, balances with pressure. * *3rd Degree:* Anesthetic (painless), leathery eschar, no blanching [1]. * **Jackson’s Thermal Zones:** Zone of coagulation (irreversible damage), Zone of stasis (potentially salvageable), and Zone of hyperemia (will recover).

Q: A 3-year-old child suffers from a burn injury involving the face, including the scalp, both buttocks, and circumferentially around both thighs. What is the Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) involved?

0.35. To calculate the Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) in pediatric burns, we must use the **Lund and Browder chart** or the **Modified Rule of Nines**, as children have a larger head-to-body ratio compared to adults. ### **Calculation Breakdown:** * **Face and Scalp (Entire Head):** In a 3-year-old, the head accounts for approximately **15%** (Formula: $19 - \text{age in years}$). Since the question specifies the face *including* the scalp, we calculate the full head surface area. * **Both Buttocks:** Each buttock is **2.5%**, totaling **5%**. * **Both Thighs (Circumferential):** In a 3-year-old, each thigh is approximately **7.5%**. For both thighs, this equals **15%**. * **Total:** $15\% (\text{Head}) + 5\% (\text{Buttocks}) + 15\% (\text{Thighs}) = \mathbf{35\%}$ (or **0.35**). ### **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **A (0.25) & B (0.26):** These values underestimate the TBSA by failing to account for the larger surface area of the pediatric head or the circumferential nature of the thigh burns. * **D (0.45):** This overestimates the area, likely by using adult proportions or incorrectly adding the entire lower limb instead of just the thighs. ### **NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls:** 1. **The "Rule of Nines" is inaccurate for children.** Use the Lund-Browder chart for the most accurate assessment. 2. **Pediatric Head Proportions:** At birth, the head is 19%. For every year of age up to 10, subtract 1% from the head and add 0.5% to each leg. 3. **Palmar Method:** The patient’s palm (including fingers) represents roughly **1% TBSA**; this is useful for small or patchy burns. 4. **Fluid Resuscitation:** In pediatrics, the **Parkland Formula** ($4\text{ ml} \times \text{kg} \times \% \text{TBSA}$) is used, but **maintenance fluids** (using the 4-2-1 rule) must be added separately because children have lower glycogen stores.

Q: In a condylar fracture with greater than 5 mm of overlapping and greater than 37 degrees of angulation of the fracture segment, what is the line of treatment?

ORIF. **Explanation:** The management of mandibular condylar fractures is categorized into absolute and relative indications for surgery. The correct answer is **ORIF (Open Reduction and Internal Fixation)** based on the established **Zide and Yale criteria**. **Why ORIF is correct:** According to the Zide and Yale criteria, specific degrees of displacement necessitate surgical intervention to restore functional occlusion and prevent long-term complications like ankylosis or facial asymmetry. The relative indications for ORIF include: * **Displacement:** Greater than 5 mm. * **Angulation:** Greater than 37 degrees between the condylar fragment and the ramus. * **Loss of vertical height** of the ramus. In this case, the patient meets both the displacement and angulation thresholds, making ORIF the treatment of choice to ensure anatomical reduction. **Why other options are incorrect:** * **A. Closed reduction and IMF:** While common for non-displaced fractures, it is insufficient here. Excessive angulation (>37°) often leads to malocclusion and chronic pain if not surgically corrected. * **C & D. Soft diet / No treatment:** These are reserved for very minimally displaced fractures or intracapsular fractures in children. In a displaced condylar fracture, "no treatment" would result in permanent functional impairment and possible pseudoarthrosis. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Absolute Indications for ORIF (Zide & Yale):** Displacement into the middle cranial fossa, inability to obtain occlusion by closed reduction, and presence of a foreign body. * **Most common site of Mandible Fracture:** Condyle (followed by Body and Angle). * **Nerve at risk during ORIF:** Facial Nerve (specifically the marginal mandibular or temporal branches depending on the approach). * **Guardians of the Condyle:** The lateral pterygoid muscle typically pulls the fractured condylar segment **anteromedially**.

Q: Which of the following is NOT true regarding burn patients?

Hematemesis. In burn management, understanding the physiological complications and standard protocols is vital for NEET-PG. **Explanation of the Correct Answer:** **Option A (Hematemesis)** is the correct choice because it is **not** a typical or immediate feature of burn patients. While burn patients are at risk for **Curling’s Ulcer** (acute stress ulcers in the gastric or duodenal mucosa due to reduced mucosal blood flow), these usually manifest as occult bleeding or melena later in the clinical course. Massive hematemesis is rare in the modern era due to the routine use of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) and early enteral feeding in burn units. **Analysis of Other Options:** * **Option B:** For head and neck burns, **exposure (open) treatment** is preferred. Dressings are difficult to apply and maintain in these areas, and the rich vascularity of the face promotes healing without the need for occlusive dressings. * **Option C:** **Stridor** is a critical sign of **inhalation injury** and impending airway obstruction due to laryngeal edema. It is a classic "red flag" indicating the need for immediate endotracheal intubation. * **Option D:** **Pseudomonas aeruginosa** remains the most common opportunistic pathogen causing burn wound sepsis, characterized by a greenish discoloration and a fruity odor. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** 1. **Curling’s Ulcer:** Associated with Burns; **Cushing’s Ulcer:** Associated with Head Trauma (increased ICP). 2. **Fluid Resuscitation:** Parkland Formula ($4ml \times \text{kg} \times \text{TBSA\%}$) is the gold standard; Ringer’s Lactate is the fluid of choice. 3. **Inhalation Injury:** Suspect if there are singed nasal hairs, carbonaceous sputum, or burns in a closed space. 4. **Silver Sulfadiazine:** The most common topical antibiotic, but contraindicated in patients with sulfa allergies or on the face (causes staining).

Q: What is the degree of this burn shown below?

2nd degree. ***2nd degree*** - Characterized by **partial thickness burns** affecting the **epidermis and dermis**, typically presenting with **blisters** and a **moist, weeping surface**. - The burn is **painful** due to intact nerve endings and has good **healing potential** with proper care, usually within 2-3 weeks. *1st degree* - Involves only the **superficial epidermis**, presenting as **dry, red skin** without blisters or fluid loss. - Heals within **3-7 days** without scarring and is typically seen in mild **sunburn** cases. *3rd degree* - Involves **full thickness** destruction of epidermis and dermis, appearing **white, waxy, or charred** with a **leathery texture**. - The burn is **painless** due to destroyed nerve endings and requires **surgical intervention** as it cannot heal spontaneously. *4th degree* - Extends beyond the skin into **underlying tissues** including **muscle, bone, and tendons**, appearing **deeply charred or carbonized**. - Requires **extensive surgical debridement** and reconstruction, often resulting in **significant functional impairment** and potential amputation.

Q: Which among the following topical agents used in burns can cause acidosis?

Mafenide acetate. **Mafenide acetate (Sulfamylon)** is a highly effective topical antimicrobial agent, particularly useful in burns due to its excellent penetration through thick eschar and its activity against *Pseudomonas*. ### Why Mafenide Acetate causes Acidosis? The underlying mechanism is the inhibition of the enzyme **Carbonic Anhydrase**. By inhibiting this enzyme in the renal tubules, it prevents the reabsorption of bicarbonate and decreases the excretion of hydrogen ions. This leads to **Hyperchloremic Metabolic Acidosis**. Additionally, to compensate for this metabolic acidosis, patients often develop **hyperventilation** (respiratory compensation), which can lead to respiratory failure in patients with underlying pulmonary injuries. ### Explanation of Incorrect Options: * **Silver sulfadiazine (A):** The most commonly used topical agent. Its primary side effect is **transient leukopenia** (neutropenia), not acidosis. It has poor eschar penetration. * **Silver Nitrate (C):** This agent is associated with electrolyte imbalances, specifically **hyponatremia and hypochloremia**, because it leaches chloride and sodium from the wound. It also causes black staining of the skin/dressings. * **Povidone Iodine (D):** While it can cause iodine toxicity or transient hypothyroidism if used over very large areas, it is not a classic cause of metabolic acidosis in standard burn care. ### NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls: * **Best eschar penetration:** Mafenide acetate (Drug of choice for ear burns to prevent suppurative chondritis). * **Painful application:** Mafenide acetate causes a severe stinging sensation upon application. * **Silver Sulfadiazine contraindication:** Do not use in neonates (risk of kernicterus), pregnancy at term, or patients with sulfa allergies. * **Silver Nitrate precaution:** It must be used in 0.5% concentration; higher concentrations are caustic to tissues.

Q: Which of the following is NOT a criterion for admission to a burn ward?

Diabetes. The criteria for admission to a specialized burn unit are based on the severity of the injury, the complexity of management, and the risk of long-term functional impairment. **Explanation of the Correct Answer:** **Option D (Diabetes)** is the correct answer because it is a **co-morbidity**, not a primary criterion for admission. While pre-existing medical conditions (like diabetes, cardiac disease, or renal failure) can complicate management and may necessitate hospitalization, they do not automatically mandate admission to a specialized *burn ward* unless the burn itself meets specific severity criteria. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **Option A (Suspicion of non-accidental injury):** Any suspicion of child abuse or self-harm is a mandatory indication for admission to ensure patient safety and facilitate social/legal intervention. * **Option B (Burn likely to require surgery):** Full-thickness (3rd-degree) burns or deep partial-thickness burns that require skin grafting or surgical debridement must be managed in a specialized burn unit. * **Option C (Burns on the hand):** Burns involving "special areas" (face, hands, feet, genitalia, perineum, or major joints) require expert care to prevent contractures and preserve function, thus necessitating admission. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **ABA Referral Criteria:** Admission is required for Partial-thickness burns >10% TBSA, burns in special areas, 3rd-degree burns, chemical/electrical burns, and inhalation injuries. * **Rule of Nines:** Used for quick TBSA estimation; remember that the **palm (including fingers)** of the patient represents approximately **1% TBSA**. * **Parkland Formula:** $4 \text{ mL} \times \text{kg} \times \% \text{TBSA}$ (Ringer’s Lactate). Give half in the first 8 hours and the remainder over the next 16 hours.

Q: A 30-year-old patient with a head injury presented to the emergency department. NCCT findings are provided. All of the following are true about this condition except:

Full recovery is rare even after treatment. ***Full recovery is rare even after treatment*** - This statement is **incorrect** - full recovery is actually **common** with prompt surgical treatment of epidural hematoma. - Early recognition and **immediate surgical evacuation** leads to excellent prognosis in most cases, making this the exception among the given statements. *Lucid interval is positive* - **Classic feature** of epidural hematoma where patient initially loses consciousness, then appears normal before deteriorating. - Occurs due to **progressive hematoma expansion** causing delayed compression of brain structures. *Immediate surgical evacuation should be done* - **Emergency craniotomy** and hematoma evacuation is the standard treatment for epidural hematoma. - Delay in surgical intervention can lead to **brain herniation** and death due to increasing intracranial pressure. *Arterial bleeding* - Epidural hematoma typically results from **middle meningeal artery** rupture following temporal bone fracture. - **High-pressure arterial bleeding** causes rapid hematoma formation, unlike venous subdural hematomas.

Q: After an open injury, what is the optimum time for nerve suture?

When the wound is free from infection. **Explanation:** The timing of nerve repair after an open injury is primarily dictated by the **nature of the wound** and the **mechanism of injury**. In open trauma, the risk of contamination and subsequent infection is high. **Why Option D is Correct:** The fundamental principle of nerve surgery is that a nerve suture should only be attempted in a **clean, well-vascularized field**. If a nerve is sutured in an infected environment, the resulting inflammatory response leads to excessive fibrosis and scarring at the suture site. This prevents axonal regeneration across the repair, leading to a failed functional outcome. Therefore, the "optimum time" in the context of an open, potentially contaminated injury is as soon as the wound is confirmed to be healthy and free from infection. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **A. Immediately:** While "Primary Repair" (within 24 hours) is ideal for clean, sharp incised wounds (e.g., a surgical blade or glass cut), it is contraindicated in ragged, contaminated open injuries where the extent of nerve contusion is not yet clear. * **B & C. Within one month / 1-2 months:** These represent "Delayed Primary" or "Secondary" repairs. While these are common timeframes, they are arbitrary. The biological prerequisite is wound healing; if a wound remains infected at two months, suturing the nerve would still result in failure. **NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls:** * **Primary Repair:** Best for clean, sharp transections. * **Delayed Repair (3–6 weeks):** Preferred for blunt trauma or crush injuries. This allows the zone of injury (extent of scarring) to become clearly demarcated, ensuring the surgeon trims back to healthy fascicles. * **Wallerian Degeneration:** Begins within 24–48 hours post-injury. * **Regeneration Rate:** Nerve fibers typically regrow at a rate of **1 mm/day**.

Question 1

All of the following are true about the CRASH-2 trial except:

Accepted Answer

Tranexamic acid reduces the risk of mortality from bleeding in blunt trauma but not in penetrating trauma.

Answer

The dose of tranexamic acid is 1 gm IV over 10 minutes followed by 1 gm over 8 hours.

Answer

It is given to all trauma patients suspected to have significant hemorrhage, including those with SBP <110 mm Hg or PR >110/min.

Answer

It should be administered within 3 hours of injury.

Question 2

In third-degree burns, which of the following findings is typically absent?

Accepted Answer

Pain

Answer

Vesicles

Answer

Leathery skin

Answer

Reddish discoloration due to hemoglobin infiltration

Question 3

A 3-year-old child suffers from a burn injury involving the face, including the scalp, both buttocks, and circumferentially around both thighs. What is the Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) involved?

Accepted Answer

0.35

Answer

0.25

Answer

0.26

Answer

0.45

Question 4

In a condylar fracture with greater than 5 mm of overlapping and greater than 37 degrees of angulation of the fracture segment, what is the line of treatment?

Accepted Answer

ORIF

Answer

Closed reduction and IMF

Answer

Soft diet

Answer

No treatment

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT true regarding burn patients?

Accepted Answer

Hematemesis

Answer

For head and neck burns, exposure treatment is done

Answer

Stridor can be present

Answer

The most common infection is by Pseudomonas

Question 6

What is the degree of this burn shown below?

Accepted Answer

2nd degree

Answer

1st degree

Answer

3rd degree

Answer

4th degree

Question 7

Which among the following topical agents used in burns can cause acidosis?

Accepted Answer

Mafenide acetate

Answer

Silver sulfadiazine

Answer

Silver Nitrate

Answer

Povidone Iodine

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a criterion for admission to a burn ward?

Accepted Answer

Diabetes

Answer

Any suspicion of non-accidental injury

Answer

Any burn likely to require surgery

Answer

Burns on the hand

Question 9

A 30-year-old patient with a head injury presented to the emergency department. NCCT findings are provided. All of the following are true about this condition except:

Accepted Answer

Full recovery is rare even after treatment

Answer

Lucid interval is positive

Answer

Immediate surgical evacuation should be done

Answer

Arterial bleeding

Question 10

After an open injury, what is the optimum time for nerve suture?

Accepted Answer

When the wound is free from infection

Answer

Immediately

Answer

Within one month

Answer

1-2 months

Trauma — MCQs

Trauma — MCQs

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