PTA Geography Knowledge 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which landmark is used to identify the level of the L4 vertebra during surface palpation?
- Inferior angle of the scapula
- Iliac crest (Correct answer)
- Greater trochanter
- Posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS)
Correct answer: Iliac crest
The iliac crest is a reliable surface landmark that corresponds approximately to the level of the L4 vertebra.
Question 2: The pes anserine is a surface landmark found on which aspect of the knee?
- Lateral superior tibia
- Medial proximal tibia (Correct answer)
- Posterior femoral condyle
- Anterior patella
Correct answer: Medial proximal tibia
The pes anserine ('goose's foot') is the conjoined tendon insertion of three muscles on the medial proximal tibia.
Question 3: Which surface landmark corresponds to the T7 vertebral level?
- Superior angle of the scapula
- Spine of the scapula
- Inferior angle of the scapula (Correct answer)
- Acromion process
Correct answer: Inferior angle of the scapula
The inferior angle of the scapula is a common landmark that aligns with the T7 (or T7-T8) vertebral level.
Question 4: Which bony landmark is palpated to locate the greater sciatic notch region during a hip examination?
- Anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS)
- Ischial tuberosity (Correct answer)
- Greater trochanter
- Pubic symphysis
Correct answer: Ischial tuberosity
The ischial tuberosity is the bony prominence of the pelvis used as a landmark when locating structures near the greater sciatic notch.
Question 5: The medial malleolus is a surface landmark of which bone?
- Fibula
- Calcaneus
- Tibia (Correct answer)
- Talus
Correct answer: Tibia
The medial malleolus is the bony protrusion on the inner (medial) aspect of the ankle, formed by the distal tibia.
Question 6: The coracoid process is a palpable landmark on which bone?
- Clavicle
- Scapula (Correct answer)
- Humerus
- Sternum
Correct answer: Scapula
The coracoid process is a hook-shaped projection of the scapula, palpable just below the clavicle on the anterior shoulder.
Question 7: Which surface landmark is used to measure the trochanteric-tibial length for leg length assessment?
- Anterior superior iliac spine
- Posterior superior iliac spine
- Greater trochanter (Correct answer)
- Medial joint line
Correct answer: Greater trochanter
The greater trochanter of the femur is the proximal landmark used when measuring trochanteric-tibial leg length.
PTA Geography Knowledge 3
Which landmark is used to identify the level of the L4 vertebra during surface palpation?