Diagnostic & Therapeutic Procedures Flashcards

Which imaging modality is most appropriate for initial evaluation of suspected acute stroke?

Answer: Non-contrast CT head

For the initial evaluation of suspected acute stroke, a non-contrast CT head is the most appropriate imaging modality. Its primary purpose is to rapidly rule out hemorrhagic stroke, which requires different and immediate management than ischemic stroke. While MRI offers more detailed imaging, CT is faster, more readily available, and crucial for immediate decision-making in acute stroke protocols.

What is the gold standard diagnostic test for pulmonary embolism?

Answer: CT pulmonary angiography

CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) is considered the gold standard diagnostic test for pulmonary embolism (PE). It provides direct visualization of the pulmonary arteries, allowing for accurate detection of emboli. While D-dimer and V/Q scans are part of the diagnostic algorithm, CTPA offers superior sensitivity and specificity for definitively confirming the presence of a PE.

Which procedure is indicated for a patient with symptomatic bradycardia unresponsive to atropine?

Answer: Transvenous pacemaker

For symptomatic bradycardia unresponsive to atropine, a transvenous pacemaker is the indicated procedure. Atropine is the first-line pharmacologic treatment, but if it fails to improve the heart rate and symptoms, temporary pacing is necessary to maintain adequate cardiac output. Cardioversion is used for tachyarrhythmias, not bradycardia.

What is the most appropriate initial diagnostic test for suspected Crohn's disease?

Answer: Colonoscopy with biopsy

For suspected Crohn's disease, colonoscopy with biopsy is the most appropriate initial diagnostic test. It allows for direct visualization of the colonic and terminal ileal mucosa, identification of characteristic inflammatory changes, and collection of tissue samples for histopathological confirmation. This is crucial for definitive diagnosis and differentiation from other inflammatory bowel conditions.

Which therapeutic procedure is first-line for tension pneumothorax?

Answer: Needle decompression

Tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening medical emergency requiring immediate intervention. The first-line therapeutic procedure is needle decompression, which rapidly relieves the dangerous pressure buildup in the pleural space. This converts a tension pneumothorax into a simple pneumothorax, stabilizing the patient until a definitive chest tube can be inserted.

What is the diagnostic test of choice for confirming bacterial meningitis?

Answer: Lumbar puncture with CSF analysis

The diagnostic test of choice for confirming bacterial meningitis is a lumbar puncture (LP) with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis. CSF analysis provides crucial information, including cell count, protein, glucose levels, and Gram stain, which helps differentiate bacterial from viral meningitis. This information is critical for guiding appropriate and timely antibiotic therapy.

Which procedure is indicated for a patient with upper GI bleeding and hemodynamic instability?

Answer: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)

For a patient with upper GI bleeding and hemodynamic instability, Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is the most appropriate procedure. EGD allows for direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to identify the source of bleeding. Crucially, it also enables immediate therapeutic interventions, such as endoscopic hemostasis, to stop the bleeding and stabilize the patient.

What is the most accurate diagnostic test for osteoporosis?

Answer: DEXA scan

The most accurate diagnostic test for osteoporosis is a Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scan. DEXA measures bone mineral density (BMD) at specific sites, typically the hip and spine, and provides a T-score. This score is used to diagnose osteoporosis, assess fracture risk, and monitor treatment effectiveness, making it the gold standard for this condition.

Which therapeutic procedure is indicated for symptomatic atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response when medications fail?

Answer: Electrical cardioversion

For symptomatic atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response that is unresponsive to medications, electrical cardioversion is the indicated therapeutic procedure. This involves delivering a controlled electrical shock to reset the heart's rhythm to normal sinus rhythm. It is often used when patients are hemodynamically unstable or when pharmacologic attempts fail to control the arrhythmia.