FRCR Image Interpretation and Anatomy Flashcards

Which MRI finding is characteristic of a complete rotator cuff tear?

Answer: Full-thickness discontinuity of the tendon with retraction on T2-weighted images

A full-thickness rotator cuff tear appears as a complete gap in the tendon with fluid signal (bright on T2) extending from the bursal to articular surface, often with tendon retraction.

On a plain skull radiograph, which suture separates the parietal bones from the frontal bone?

Answer: Coronal suture

The coronal suture is the transverse suture joining the two parietal bones to the frontal bone, running from temple to temple across the top of the skull.

Which CT angiography finding is diagnostic of pulmonary embolism?

Answer: Intraluminal filling defect within a pulmonary artery

CTPA demonstrates pulmonary embolism as a low-attenuation intraluminal filling defect (clot) outlined by contrast within the pulmonary artery lumen.

On barium swallow, what appearance is characteristic of a pharyngeal (Zenker's) diverticulum?

Answer: Posterior outpouching at the pharyngo-esophageal junction filled with barium

Zenker's diverticulum appears on barium swallow as a posterior herniation through Killian's dehiscence at the pharyngo-esophageal junction, filling with barium and potentially causing dysphagia.

Which finding on plain radiograph of the wrist is most suggestive of a scaphoid fracture when the initial X-ray appears normal?

Answer: Clinical suspicion warrants MRI or bone scan regardless of X-ray findings

Up to 20% of scaphoid fractures are occult on initial plain radiographs; MRI (or bone scintigraphy) should be performed when clinical suspicion is high, as missed fractures risk avascular necrosis.

What is the significance of the 'air bronchogram' sign on chest radiograph or CT?

Answer: Air-filled bronchi visible within consolidated opaque lung, indicating patent airway

Air bronchograms are seen when airless (consolidated or collapsed) lung surrounds air-filled bronchi, confirming the opacity is within lung parenchyma and that the airways remain patent.