ABFAS Postoperative Care and Wound Management 2

Question 1

What is the standard antibiotic prophylaxis used for clean foot and ankle surgical procedures?

Accepted Answer

First-generation cephalosporin (cefazolin)

Answer

Cefazolin, a first-generation cephalosporin, is the standard prophylactic antibiotic for clean orthopedic procedures because it covers the most common skin pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus.

Question 2

Which patient population requires the most modified wound care protocols and longer healing times after foot and ankle surgery?

Accepted Answer

Diabetic patients

Answer

Diabetic patients have impaired wound healing due to peripheral neuropathy, vasculopathy, and immune dysfunction, necessitating more intensive and modified postoperative wound care protocols.

Question 3

What is the most appropriate initial treatment for a superficial wound dehiscence after foot surgery?

Accepted Answer

Wet-to-dry dressing changes to promote secondary intention healing

Answer

Wet-to-dry dressing changes encourage granulation tissue formation and allow healing by secondary intention, which is the appropriate conservative first-line approach for superficial dehiscence.

Question 4

What does the RICE protocol stand for in acute postoperative foot and ankle management?

Accepted Answer

Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation

Answer

RICE stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation — the four key components used to manage acute postoperative pain and swelling.

Question 5

Which factor most significantly impairs postoperative wound healing in foot and ankle surgery patients?

Accepted Answer

Tobacco smoking

Answer

Tobacco smoking causes peripheral vasoconstriction and tissue hypoxia, significantly impairing wound healing and increasing the risk of infection and dehiscence.

(ABFAS) American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery Practice Test

(ABFAS) American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery Practice Test

ABFAS Postoperative Care and Wound Management 2