CTO Upper Extremity Orthotics 3

Question 1

A mallet finger orthosis must position the DIP joint in which position to allow terminal tendon healing?

Accepted Answer

Full extension or slight hyperextension

Answer

The DIP must be maintained in full extension or 5–10 degrees of hyperextension continuously to allow the terminal extensor tendon to heal without a gap.

Question 2

Low-temperature thermoplastic materials commonly used for hand and wrist orthoses typically become moldable at which temperature range?

Accepted Answer

60–70°C (140–158°F)

Answer

Low-temperature thermoplastics used in upper extremity orthotics soften in water at 60–70°C, allowing direct molding on the patient safely.

Question 3

In ulnar nerve palsy at the elbow, which fingers demonstrate the most pronounced intrinsic minus (claw) deformity?

Accepted Answer

Ring and little fingers

Answer

The ulnar nerve innervates the hypothenar muscles and the intrinsics of the ring and little fingers, so those digits show the most pronounced clawing when the nerve is injured.

Question 4

The 'safe position' (intrinsic plus position) used when immobilizing a hand places the MCP joints at approximately how many degrees of flexion?

Accepted Answer

45–70 degrees

Answer

The safe position places the MCPs at 45–70 degrees of flexion to keep the collateral ligaments at maximum stretch, preventing them from shortening into a contracture.

Question 5

A shoulder abduction (airplane) orthosis is most commonly indicated following:

Accepted Answer

Brachial plexus injury or axillary nerve damage

Answer

A shoulder abduction orthosis positions the arm away from the body to reduce tension on repaired brachial plexus structures or damaged axillary nerve.

(CTO) Certified Orthotic Technician Practice Test

(CTO) Certified Orthotic Technician Practice Test

CTO Upper Extremity Orthotics 3