Fractures and dislocations: titanium implants: practice question

A Orthopaedics question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Orthopaedics · Fractures and dislocations: titanium implants

Sample item

Compared with 316L stainless steel, which property makes titanium alloy attractive for orthopaedic implants?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

C. A lower modulus of elasticity closer to that of bone, with excellent biocompatibility

Titanium alloys have a modulus about half that of stainless steel and closer to cortical bone, which reduces stress shielding. They resist corrosion, osseointegrate well and cause fewer metal-sensitivity reactions. Their drawbacks are higher cost, notch sensitivity and poorer wear performance as a bearing surface.

Option by option

  • A. Lower resistance to corrosion

    Titanium resists corrosion because of a passive oxide film, so corrosion resistance is a strength.

  • B. A higher stiffness that lessens implant bending

    Stainless steel is the stiffer metal, and titanium is less stiff.

  • C. A lower modulus of elasticity closer to that of bone, with excellent biocompatibility (correct)

    Correct. A lower modulus nearer to bone and a stable oxide layer make titanium suitable.

  • D. Complete insensitivity to surface scratches and notches

    Titanium is notch sensitive, so scratches reduce its fatigue strength.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Orthopaedics question

What is the answer to this Orthopaedics question?

The best answer is C, A lower modulus of elasticity closer to that of bone, with excellent biocompatibility. Titanium alloys have a modulus about half that of stainless steel and closer to cortical bone, which reduces stress shielding.

Why is "Lower resistance to corrosion" not the answer?

Titanium resists corrosion because of a passive oxide film, so corrosion resistance is a strength.

Why is "A higher stiffness that lessens implant bending" not the answer?

Stainless steel is the stiffer metal, and titanium is less stiff.

Why is "Complete insensitivity to surface scratches and notches" not the answer?

Titanium is notch sensitive, so scratches reduce its fatigue strength.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Fractures and dislocations: titanium implants in Orthopaedics. They resist corrosion, osseointegrate well and cause fewer metal-sensitivity reactions. Their drawbacks are higher cost, notch sensitivity and poorer wear performance as a bearing surface.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Fractures and dislocations: titanium implants?

Pair each fracture with its classic complication and nerve injured. Then use the flashcards and the other Orthopaedics questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.