CTO Patient Evaluation & Measurement 2

Question 1

When measuring a patient for a supramalleolar orthosis (SMO), which anatomical landmark is used to determine the proximal trim line height?

Accepted Answer

Just above the malleoli

Answer

The proximal trim line of an SMO is positioned just above the malleoli to provide medial-lateral ankle stability without restricting tibiotalar motion.

Question 2

A patient presents with a limb length discrepancy of 1.8 cm. Which evaluation tool provides the most clinically accurate measurement?

Accepted Answer

Scanogram (orthoroentgenogram)

Answer

Scanogram provides the most accurate measurement of limb length discrepancy by using serial radiographic exposures of the hip, knee, and ankle on a single film with a ruler for reference.

Question 3

During gait analysis, a patient exhibits excessive lateral trunk lean toward the right stance limb. This compensatory pattern most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Right hip abductor weakness

Answer

Lateral trunk lean (Trendelenburg compensation) toward the stance limb reduces the external abductor moment demand when hip abductors are weak.

Question 4

A certified orthotic technician is fitting a patient with a rigid AFO. The patient reports pressure over the navicular tuberosity. Which measurement step was most likely inadequate?

Accepted Answer

Identification of bony prominences prior to casting

Answer

Failure to identify and mark bony prominences such as the navicular tuberosity before casting leads to pressure areas in the finished orthosis.

Question 5

When evaluating a patient's knee for an KAFO prescription, which measurement most directly determines the mechanical joint axis placement?

Accepted Answer

Medial joint line height from the floor

Answer

Medial joint line height from the floor is the primary measurement used to align the KAFO mechanical knee joint with the anatomical axis.

(CTO) Certified Orthotic Technician Practice Test

(CTO) Certified Orthotic Technician Practice Test

CTO Patient Evaluation & Measurement 2