Orthopaedic Technologist Certification Flashcards

Which of the following BEST describes a Salter-Harris Type II fracture?

Answer: Fracture through the physis and metaphysis

Salter-Harris Type II fractures cross through the physis and extend into the metaphysis, making them the most common physeal fracture type.

When padding a cast, bony prominences such as the fibular head should receive:

Answer: Extra padding to prevent pressure sores

Bony prominences are at high risk for pressure necrosis and must receive extra cast padding to prevent skin breakdown.

A patellar tendon-bearing (PTB) cast or brace is used primarily for fractures of the:

Answer: Tibial shaft

PTB functional bracing transfers weight-bearing load through the patellar tendon and soft tissues, most commonly used for tibial shaft fractures.

Which position is recommended for the wrist when applying a cock-up wrist splint for carpal tunnel syndrome?

Answer: Neutral to slight extension (0-10 degrees)

A neutral to slight extension position minimizes pressure within the carpal tunnel and reduces median nerve compression.

Hip spica casts are most commonly applied in pediatric patients for management of:

Answer: Femoral shaft fractures and developmental dysplasia of the hip

Hip spica casts encompass the abdomen and one or both lower extremities and are used for femoral fractures and post-reduction stabilization of hip dysplasia in children.

The 'unhappy triad' of the knee involves injury to the:

Answer: ACL, MCL, and medial meniscus

The unhappy triad (O'Donoghue's triad) classically describes combined injury to the ACL, MCL, and medial meniscus from a valgus force with external rotation.

When setting plaster of Paris casting material, the exothermic reaction can reach temperatures high enough to cause burns. To reduce this risk, the OT should:

Answer: Use cool water and avoid excess plaster thickness

Cool water slows the setting reaction and reduces peak temperature; thick sections also trap more heat, so excessive layers should be avoided.