ABCS Risk Assessment & Management 3

Question 1

Which factor is the strongest independent predictor of postoperative pulmonary embolism following cosmetic surgery?

Accepted Answer

Concurrent multiple procedures with operative time exceeding 6 hours

Answer

Prolonged operative time combined with multiple simultaneous procedures is among the strongest independent risk factors for VTE and PE after cosmetic surgery.

Question 2

A 35-year-old patient discloses she takes St. John's Wort daily. Which perioperative risk does this most directly raise?

Accepted Answer

Altered drug metabolism and potential serotonin syndrome with anesthetic agents

Answer

St. John's Wort induces CYP enzymes and can interact with anesthetic agents and opioids, raising the risk of serotonin syndrome and unpredictable drug levels.

Question 3

The Caprini Risk Assessment Model stratifies patients for perioperative:

Accepted Answer

Venous thromboembolism risk

Answer

The Caprini score is a validated tool for stratifying VTE risk in surgical patients and guiding prophylaxis intensity.

Question 4

During blepharoplasty, a patient develops sudden bradycardia and hypotension after periorbital injection. The most likely cause is:

Accepted Answer

Oculocardiac reflex triggered by periorbital pressure or traction

Answer

The oculocardiac reflex (trigeminovagal) is triggered by traction or pressure on periorbital structures and can cause bradycardia and hemodynamic compromise.

Question 5

In the informed consent process for rhinoplasty, which element specifically addresses risk management obligations?

Accepted Answer

Clearly disclosing material risks, alternatives, and the surgeon's revision policy

Answer

Informed consent requires disclosure of material risks, alternatives, expected outcomes, and any limitations—this directly fulfills the surgeon's risk communication duty.

(ABCS) American Board of Cosmetic Surgery Certification Practice Test

(ABCS) American Board of Cosmetic Surgery Certification Practice Test

ABCS Risk Assessment & Management 3