ABFAS Postoperative Care and Wound Management 3

Question 1

Which combination of findings is the most reliable clinical indicator of a postoperative surgical site infection?

Accepted Answer

Purulent drainage with wound warmth and swelling

Answer

Mild wound erythema alone

Answer

Minimal edema around the incision

Answer

Slight wound discoloration without drainage

Question 2

Which imaging modality is most appropriate for routinely monitoring bone healing after foot and ankle fusion surgery?

Accepted Answer

Plain radiographs

Answer

MRI

Answer

Nerve conduction studies

Answer

Diagnostic ultrasound

Question 3

For which postoperative indication is the Ilizarov circular external fixation technique most commonly used in foot and ankle surgery?

Accepted Answer

Limb lengthening and gradual deformity correction

Answer

Wound debridement

Answer

Peripheral nerve repair

Answer

Tendon transfer stabilization

Question 4

What is the recommended initial management for a small postoperative hematoma after foot and ankle surgery?

Accepted Answer

Compression bandaging and elevation

Answer

Immediate surgical evacuation

Answer

Application of heat packs to the area

Answer

Immediate systemic antibiotic therapy

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of using a total contact cast (TCC) in diabetic foot postoperative care?

Accepted Answer

To redistribute plantar pressure and protect wound healing

Answer

To prevent deep vein thrombosis

Answer

To facilitate early unrestricted ambulation

Answer

To reduce postoperative infection risk

Question 6

Which complication is most associated with prolonged cast immobilization after foot and ankle surgery?

Accepted Answer

Muscle atrophy and joint stiffness

Answer

Wound dehiscence

Answer

Surgical site infection

Answer

Hardware failure

Question 7

When is negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT/VAC) most indicated in the postoperative management of foot and ankle wounds?

Accepted Answer

For complex wounds with significant tissue defects or impaired healing

Answer

For simple clean lacerations with primary closure

Answer

For routine post-surgical incisions in healthy patients

Answer

For minor superficial abrasions