Fractures and dislocations: anterior inferior iliac spine avulsion: 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: anterior inferior iliac spine avulsion

Sample item

A 15-year-old sprinter feels a pop in the groin at the start of a sprint. The pelvis radiograph shows an avulsed fragment from the anterior inferior iliac spine. Which muscle has pulled it off?

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

The answer and the reasoning

A. Rectus femoris

The straight head of rectus femoris originates from the anterior inferior iliac spine. Avulsions occur through the open apophysis in adolescents, with sudden forceful kicking or sprinting. Most are minimally displaced and are treated with rest and gradual rehabilitation.

Option by option

  • A. Rectus femoris (correct)

    Correct. The straight head of rectus femoris arises from the anterior inferior iliac spine.

  • B. Biceps femoris

    The hamstrings, including biceps femoris, arise from the ischial tuberosity.

  • C. Iliopsoas

    Iliopsoas inserts on the lesser trochanter, which can also avulse, but this is a different site.

  • D. Sartorius

    Sartorius arises from the anterior superior iliac spine.

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 A, Rectus femoris. The straight head of rectus femoris originates from the anterior inferior iliac spine.

Why is "Biceps femoris" not the answer?

The hamstrings, including biceps femoris, arise from the ischial tuberosity.

Why is "Iliopsoas" not the answer?

Iliopsoas inserts on the lesser trochanter, which can also avulse, but this is a different site.

Why is "Sartorius" not the answer?

Sartorius arises from the anterior superior iliac spine.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Fractures and dislocations: anterior inferior iliac spine avulsion in Orthopaedics. Avulsions occur through the open apophysis in adolescents, with sudden forceful kicking or sprinting. Most are minimally displaced and are treated with rest and gradual rehabilitation.

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: anterior inferior iliac spine avulsion?

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.