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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents with abdominal distension, obstipation, and vomiting. He has a history of prior abdominal surgery. An upright abdominal X-ray is performed. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Colonoscopy
B. Surgical consultation
C. Barium enema
D. Stool softeners
E. Oral antibiotics
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents to the emergency department complaining of abdominal pain, distension, and obstipation for the past 3 days. He reports a history of multiple abdominal surgeries for adhesions. His vital signs are: HR 110 bpm, BP 110/70 mmHg, RR 22 breaths/min, SpO2 97% on room air, and temperature 37.8°C. Physical examination reveals a distended abdomen with high-pitched bowel sounds. An upright abdominal X-ray is performed, as shown. Given the clinical context and the findings on the imaging, what is the MOST appropriate next imaging investigation to guide management?

A. CT abdomen and pelvis with intravenous contrast
B. Repeat plain abdominal X-ray in 6 hours
C. MRI abdomen
D. Barium enema
E. Upper GI series with small bowel follow-through
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old man presents to the emergency department with a 6-hour history of worsening pain in his right groin. He has a known right inguinal hernia that has been present for several years and was previously reducible, but he has been unable to push it back in today. The pain is now constant and severe, rated 8/10. He denies fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting. His vital signs are: temperature 37.2°C, heart rate 96 bpm, blood pressure 140/90 mmHg, respiratory rate 18 breaths/min, oxygen saturation 97% on room air. On examination, there is a firm, exquisitely tender, non-reducible mass in the right inguinal region. The overlying skin appears slightly erythematous. Bowel sounds are present and normal. An urgent CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed, and a representative axial image is shown. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the image, what is the MOST appropriate immediate next step in management?

A. Administer broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics and observe for improvement.
B. Urgent surgical consultation for operative repair.
C. Order an urgent ultrasound of the groin to assess for vascular flow.
D. Arrange for elective outpatient surgical repair within the next week.
E. Attempt manual reduction of the hernia under sedation.
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Elective abdominal ultrasonography of a 64 year old woman with past colicky pain but no current pain. It shows a mildly dilated common bile duct with what appears to be a gallstone (black arrow). The green and blue dots are blood flow, since the exam is done as a Doppler ultrasound to distinguish the bile duct from blood vessels.
Image by Mikael Häggström CC0 1.0 · Source

A 64-year-old woman with a history of intermittent, self-resolving right upper quadrant pain presents for evaluation. She denies fever, chills, or jaundice, and her physical examination is unremarkable. Routine blood tests, including liver function tests and amylase, are within normal limits. An abdominal ultrasound was performed, and a representative image is shown. Based on the findings in this image and her clinical presentation, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy alone
B. Prescribe oral analgesics and advise dietary modification
C. Elective endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for stone extraction
D. Referral for urgent surgical common bile duct exploration
E. Observation with regular clinical review
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Inguinal hernia right view. Adult male with an inguinal hernia, showing bulging in the groin area.
Image by IkeTheSloth CC0 1.0 · Source

A 48-year-old man presents to his GP reporting an intermittent swelling in his right groin over the past six months. He notes it is more prominent when he is upright or coughing and disappears when he lies down. He experiences occasional mild discomfort but denies any acute pain, nausea, or vomiting. His past medical history is unremarkable, and vital signs are stable. Physical examination reveals the finding shown in the image. Considering the patient's history and the physical examination finding depicted, what is the most appropriate recommendation regarding definitive management for this patient?

A. Prescription of a truss for support
B. Watchful waiting with regular review
C. Elective surgical repair
D. Referral for ultrasound imaging
E. Urgent surgical exploration
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Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 3-week-old male infant is brought to the emergency department by his parents due to persistent, non-bilious vomiting after each feeding for the past week. The vomiting has become increasingly forceful. The infant appears mildly dehydrated, and his weight has remained stable since birth. On examination, an olive-shaped mass is palpated in the epigastric region when the infant is not actively vomiting. An upper GI series is performed, and the image is shown. What is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Initiate a trial of thickened feeds
B. Surgical pyloromyotomy
C. Administer intravenous ondansetron and observe
D. Start erythromycin to stimulate gastric emptying
E. Perform an upper endoscopy with biopsy
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 78-year-old male presents to the emergency department with a 6-hour history of sudden onset, severe pain and swelling in his right groin. He reports nausea but no vomiting. On examination, there is a tender, firm, non-reducible lump in the right inguinal region. Bowel sounds are present. Vitals are stable: BP 130/80, HR 75, Temp 36.8°C. A CT scan of the pelvis is performed, shown in the image. Considering the patient's acute presentation, physical examination findings, and the specific anatomical relationship demonstrated in the image, what is the most critical potential complication requiring urgent surgical assessment?

A. Epididymo-orchitis
B. Deep vein thrombosis
C. Bowel strangulation
D. Peritonitis
E. Bowel obstruction
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Clinical aspects of mammary Paget's disease occurred on the thoracic wall where simple mastectomy was performed some years before.
Image by Monica Giovannini, Carmelo D'Atri, Quirino Piubello, Annamaria Molino CC BY-SA 2.0 · Source

A 68-year-old woman presents with a persistent rash on her chest wall at the site of a previous mastectomy performed 8 years ago. She denies pain or itching. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Reassurance and observation
B. Topical corticosteroid application
C. Skin biopsy
D. Referral to dermatology for cryotherapy
E. Excisional biopsy with wide margins
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Fluoroscopic image of common bile duct stone seen at the time of ERCP. The stone is impacted in the distal common bile duct.
Image by Samir धर्म at en.wikipedia CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with a 2-day history of worsening right upper quadrant abdominal pain radiating to her back, associated with fever, chills, and yellowing of her eyes. She denies prior similar episodes but reports occasional post-prandial discomfort. On examination, she is jaundiced and tender in the right upper quadrant. Vital signs are: temperature 38.5°C, heart rate 110 bpm, blood pressure 110/70 mmHg, respiratory rate 20 breaths per minute, and oxygen saturation 97% on room air. Initial laboratory investigations reveal: white blood cell count 14,000/µL, total bilirubin 6.0 mg/dL, alkaline phosphatase 450 U/L, ALT 300 U/L, and AST 250 U/L. An ERCP is performed, and the image is obtained. Following successful intervention to relieve the obstruction, the patient's symptoms begin to improve. Considering the likely underlying cause of this presentation and the findings during the procedure, what is the MOST appropriate next step in managing this patient's condition?

A. Referral for medical dissolution therapy for gallstones
B. Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy during the same admission or shortly after discharge
C. Long-term antibiotic therapy to prevent recurrence
D. Discharge home with pain relief and follow-up in general practice
E. Repeat ERCP in 3 months to check for residual stones
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Clinical aspects of mammary Paget's disease occurred on the thoracic wall where simple mastectomy was performed some years before.
Image by Monica Giovannini, Carmelo D'Atri, Quirino Piubello, Annamaria Molino CC BY-SA 2.0 · Source

A 65-year-old woman presents with a chronic, non-healing lesion at the site of her mastectomy scar, performed 7 years ago. She denies pain but reports occasional itching. What is the MOST appropriate next investigation?

A. Mammogram of the contralateral breast
B. Fungal culture
C. Topical corticosteroid application
D. Excisional biopsy with wide margins
E. Skin biopsy
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Acute cholecystitis with gallbladder wall thickening, a large gallstone, and a large gallbladder
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 55-year-old woman presents with 2 days of worsening right upper quadrant pain radiating to her back, nausea, and subjective fever. On examination, she is tender in the RUQ. Vitals are stable. Labs show WCC 15.0, CRP 120. This image is obtained. Based on the clinical presentation and imaging findings, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Continue medical management with IV antibiotics and analgesia
B. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy within 24-72 hours
C. Urgent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
D. Repeat abdominal ultrasound in 24 hours
E. Percutaneous cholecystostomy tube insertion
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Inguinal hernia right view. Adult male with an inguinal hernia, showing bulging in the groin area.
Image by IkeTheSloth CC0 1.0 · Source

A 62-year-old man presents to his GP reporting a swelling in his right groin that has been present for approximately 18 months. He describes it as intermittent, appearing when he stands or strains, and disappearing when he lies down. He occasionally experiences a mild, dull ache in the area, but denies any severe pain, nausea, vomiting, or change in bowel habits. His past medical history includes hypertension controlled with medication. On examination, vital signs are stable, and the finding shown in the image is noted. It is easily reducible. Considering the patient's history, the absence of acute symptoms, and the physical examination finding depicted, what is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Order an urgent ultrasound scan of the groin to confirm the diagnosis.
B. Immediate referral to the emergency department for urgent surgical exploration.
C. Recommend the use of a supportive truss.
D. Prescribe simple analgesia and advise watchful waiting with regular review.
E. Referral for elective surgical repair.
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Hepatic metastases from a gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC).
Image by Hellerhoff CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 65-year-old male presents with a 3-month history of unintentional weight loss and early satiety. Gastroscopy and biopsy confirmed a gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma. Staging CT imaging is shown. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings on the provided imaging, what is the most appropriate initial management strategy?

A. Commence somatostatin analogue therapy.
B. Proceed with surgical resection of hepatic lesions.
C. Monitor with serial CT scans and symptomatic management.
D. Initiate systemic chemotherapy.
E. Plan for palliative external beam radiotherapy to the liver.
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Synchronous multiple small bowel intussusceptions in an adult with blue rubber bleb naevus syndrome. CT scan of abdomen showing i) multiple intussusceptions demonstrating doughnut signs (white arrows), intussusceptiens [A], intussusceptum [B], distended loop of small

bowel [C] and ii) haemangioma of right quadratus lumborum muscle (dark arrow).
Image by Lee C, Debnath D, Whitburn T, Farrugia M, Gonzalez F CC BY 2.0 · Source

A 45-year-old male with a known history of Blue Rubber Bleb Naevus Syndrome, characterised by recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding and multiple cutaneous vascular lesions, presents to the emergency department with acute onset severe, colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. On examination, his abdomen is distended and diffusely tender with reduced bowel sounds. Vital signs are within normal limits. An urgent abdominal CT scan is performed. Considering the patient's history, acute presentation, and the findings on the abdominal CT scan, what is the most appropriate immediate management strategy?

A. Urgent surgical consultation for operative management
B. Attempt non-operative reduction via hydrostatic or pneumatic enema
C. Perform urgent upper and lower endoscopy to identify bleeding lesions
D. Initiate conservative management with intravenous fluids and nasogastric tube insertion
E. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics and observe closely
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Acute cholecystitis with gallbladder wall thickening, a large gallstone, and a large gallbladder
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 55-year-old female presents to the emergency department with a 24-hour history of severe right upper quadrant pain radiating to the back, associated with nausea, vomiting, and subjective fever. On examination, she is tachycardic (HR 105 bpm) and febrile (38.5°C), with marked tenderness and guarding in the right upper quadrant. Blood tests reveal a white cell count of 15 x 10^9/L and C-reactive protein of 120 mg/L. Liver function tests, including bilirubin, are within normal limits. She is initiated on intravenous fluids and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Imaging is obtained. Considering the patient's clinical status and the findings on the provided imaging, which of the following represents the most appropriate definitive management strategy?

A. Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (within 24-72 hours)
B. Delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy (after 6-8 weeks)
C. Urgent ERCP to relieve obstruction
D. Percutaneous cholecystostomy tube insertion
E. Continue medical management with antibiotics and analgesia only
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Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 3-week-old male presents with projectile vomiting after feeds. An upper GI series is performed (image shown). What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Barium swallow study
B. Surgical pyloromyotomy
C. Medical management with erythromycin
D. Trial of thickened feeds
E. Upper endoscopy with biopsy
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male infant presents with increasing frequency of non-bilious vomiting after feeds for the past week. He is otherwise well, afebrile, and has wet nappies. On examination, he is alert and interactive. Abdominal examination is unremarkable. Vitals are stable. You order an ultrasound, which is shown. Based on the clinical presentation and the provided image, what is the most appropriate immediate next step in management?

A. Obtain an upper gastrointestinal barium study.
B. Discharge home with advice on feeding techniques and follow-up.
C. Proceed directly to surgical pyloromyotomy.
D. Initiate intravenous fluid resuscitation and correct electrolyte abnormalities.
E. Prescribe a proton pump inhibitor and trial smaller, more frequent feeds.
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 78-year-old male presents to the emergency department with a 6-hour history of sudden onset, severe pain and swelling in his right groin. He reports nausea but no vomiting. On examination, there is a tender, firm, non-reducible lump in the right inguinal region. Bowel sounds are present. Vitals are stable: BP 130/80, HR 75, Temp 36.8°C. A CT scan of the pelvis is performed, shown in the image. Based on the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the image, what is the most appropriate immediate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Order a follow-up ultrasound in 24 hours
B. Urgent surgical exploration and repair
C. Attempt manual reduction under sedation
D. Administer intravenous antibiotics and observe
E. Discharge home with analgesia and advice to return if symptoms worsen
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents to the emergency department complaining of abdominal pain, distension, and obstipation for the past 3 days. He reports a history of multiple abdominal surgeries for adhesions. His vital signs are: HR 110 bpm, BP 110/70 mmHg, RR 22 breaths/min, SpO2 97% on room air, and temperature 37.8°C. Physical examination reveals a distended abdomen with high-pitched bowel sounds. An upright abdominal X-ray is performed, as shown. Given the clinical context and the findings on the imaging, what is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Insert a nasogastric tube and initiate intravenous fluid resuscitation
B. Prescribe oral laxatives and encourage increased fluid intake
C. Administer intravenous antibiotics and schedule an urgent CT scan with oral contrast
D. Order a barium enema to assess for colonic obstruction
E. Perform a flexible sigmoidoscopy to rule out sigmoid volvulus
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Umbilical hernia
Image by Ibrahim Husain Meraj CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 9-month-old presents with the abdominal finding shown. It is soft and reducible. Parents are concerned. What counseling is most appropriate?

A. Reassurance and observation, as most resolve spontaneously by age 5
B. Application of an abdominal binder to prevent further enlargement
C. Immediate surgical referral due to risk of incarceration
D. Initiation of physiotherapy to strengthen abdominal muscles
E. Dietary changes to reduce intra-abdominal pressure
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CT, ultrasonography, SPECT and scintigraphy of intra-thyroid parathyroid adenoma
Image by Mnahi Bin Saeedan, Ibtisam Musallam Aljohani, Ayman Omar Khushaim, Salwa Qasim Bukhari, Salahudin Tayeb Elnaas CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 62-year-old woman presents with fatigue, bone pain, and constipation. Laboratory investigations reveal serum calcium 3.1 mmol/L, parathyroid hormone 180 pg/mL, and elevated 24-hour urine calcium excretion. Imaging studies are performed for pre-operative localisation, the results of which are shown. Considering the clinical context and the findings demonstrated in the images, which surgical approach is MOST likely indicated for definitive management?

A. Targeted parathyroidectomy via hemithyroidectomy
B. Medical management with cinacalcet
C. Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy
D. Bilateral neck exploration
E. Observation with regular calcium monitoring
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 59-year-old male presents with a painful right groin bulge that has progressively worsened over the past week. He denies fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting. Vitals are stable. The provided image was obtained. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

A. Prescribe analgesics and discharge with surgical follow-up
B. Order a bowel preparation
C. Attempt manual reduction with sedation
D. Initiate broad-spectrum antibiotics
E. Surgical consultation for operative management
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Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 4-week-old male presents with projectile vomiting after feeding. He is irritable and appears mildly dehydrated. An abdominal exam reveals a palpable, olive-shaped mass in the epigastrium. An upper GI contrast study is performed, and relevant images are shown. What is the MOST appropriate initial step in managing this patient's electrolyte imbalance?

A. Initiate feeding with a hypoallergenic formula
B. Administer intravenous normal saline bolus
C. Administer intravenous sodium bicarbonate
D. Administer oral rehydration solution
E. Administer intravenous potassium chloride
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Inguinal hernia right view. Adult male with an inguinal hernia, showing bulging in the groin area.
Image by IkeTheSloth CC0 1.0 · Source

A 62-year-old man presents to his GP with a history of a bulge in his right groin that has been present for approximately 18 months. He reports it is more prominent with straining or standing and disappears completely when he lies down. He denies any associated pain, nausea, vomiting, or change in bowel habits. He has no significant past medical history. His physical examination reveals the finding depicted in the image. Vital signs are within normal limits. Based on this clinical picture, which of the following represents the most appropriate definitive management strategy for this patient?

A. Observation with regular follow-up.
B. Urgent surgical exploration.
C. Further imaging to confirm the diagnosis.
D. Elective surgical repair.
E. Non-surgical management with a supportive device.
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 5-week-old male infant presents to the emergency department with a 3-day history of non-bilious, projectile vomiting after each feed. He is otherwise well-appearing and afebrile. His mother reports that he is feeding well but seems increasingly hungry after vomiting. On examination, the infant is alert and active, with slightly dry mucous membranes. Abdominal examination is unremarkable, with no palpable masses. An ultrasound of the abdomen is performed, the image of which is shown. What is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Surgical consultation for pyloromyotomy
B. Administer intravenous ondansetron and observe
C. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy with biopsy
D. Discharge home with instructions for frequent small-volume feeds
E. Initiate a trial of thickened feeds
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Inguinal hernia right view. Adult male with an inguinal hernia, showing bulging in the groin area.
Image by IkeTheSloth CC0 1.0 · Source

A 68-year-old man presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of severe pain and tenderness in his right groin, associated with nausea. He reports a long history of an intermittent swelling in this area, similar to the appearance shown, which he could previously push back. On examination, the swelling is firm, exquisitely tender, and irreducible. Vital signs are stable. What is the most appropriate immediate management?

A. Attempt manual reduction with sedation and analgesia
B. Order an urgent CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis
C. Prescribe oral analgesia and arrange outpatient surgical review
D. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics and observe for signs of sepsis
E. Urgent surgical consultation for potential strangulation
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents to the ED with severe groin pain and a palpable mass. He reports a history of a reducible bulge in the same area, but today it is firm and tender. He denies fever, nausea, or vomiting. Examination reveals stable vital signs. Review the provided image. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Pain management and discharge with surgical follow-up
B. Referral for elective surgical repair
C. Broad-spectrum antibiotics and observation
D. Trial of manual reduction with sedation
E. Surgical consultation for emergent repair
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CT, ultrasonography, SPECT and scintigraphy of intra-thyroid parathyroid adenoma
Image by Mnahi Bin Saeedan, Ibtisam Musallam Aljohani, Ayman Omar Khushaim, Salwa Qasim Bukhari, Salahudin Tayeb Elnaas CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 58-year-old woman presents with persistent fatigue, muscle weakness, and vague abdominal pain. Her serum calcium is 3.2 mmol/L (2.1-2.6 mmol/L), and PTH is 190 pg/mL (10-65 pg/mL). Renal function is normal. She denies any family history of endocrine disorders. Imaging studies are performed, as shown. Based on the clinical context and the imaging findings presented, which of the following represents the definitive management strategy for this patient?

A. Repeat serum calcium and PTH in three months.
B. Surgical excision of the identified lesion.
C. Order a skeletal survey to assess for osteitis fibrosa cystica.
D. Initiate treatment with cinacalcet and monitor calcium levels.
E. Perform a fine needle aspiration biopsy of the lesion.
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CT scan of hepatocellular carcinoma, without and with IV contrast
Image by Zhenyu Pan, Guozi Yang, Tingting Yuan, Lihua Dong, Lihua Dong CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 62-year-old male with a history of chronic hepatitis C presents with right upper quadrant pain, weight loss, and jaundice. Physical examination reveals hepatomegaly and mild ascites. Laboratory investigations include elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels. Imaging is performed as shown. Considering the clinical context and the findings demonstrated in the imaging, which of the following factors is MOST critical in determining this patient's eligibility for potentially curative surgical resection?

A. Absolute value of serum alpha-fetoprotein
B. Genotype of hepatitis C virus
C. Tumour size and number
D. Patient's chronological age
E. Presence of clinically significant portal hypertension
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Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male infant presents with a 2-week history of progressively worsening projectile non-bilious vomiting after feeds. He has lost weight and appears lethargic. Initial bloods show a hypochloremic, hypokalaemic metabolic alkalosis. After fluid resuscitation, the image is obtained. What is the most appropriate definitive management for this patient?

A. Further imaging with abdominal ultrasound
B. Placement of nasogastric tube for gastric decompression
C. Trial of medical management with atropine
D. Discharge home with thickened feeds and anti-reflux medication
E. Surgical pyloromyotomy
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Fluoroscopic image of common bile duct stone seen at the time of ERCP. The stone is impacted in the distal common bile duct.
Image by Samir धर्म at en.wikipedia CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with right upper quadrant abdominal pain, fever, and jaundice. Initial investigations showed a WCC of 14,000, total bilirubin 6.0, ALP 450, ALT 300. She was diagnosed with acute cholangitis and underwent urgent ERCP, during which the image was obtained. Following successful endoscopic stone extraction and significant clinical improvement with normalising inflammatory markers and liver function tests, what is the MOST appropriate next step in the long-term management of this patient's condition?

A. Repeat ERCP with sphincterotomy in three months
B. Commencement of long-term oral antibiotic therapy
C. Referral for urgent liver transplant assessment
D. Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy
E. Discharge home with outpatient gastroenterology follow-up
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 78-year-old man presents to the emergency department with acute, severe right groin pain and a palpable, non-reducible mass. He reports associated nausea but denies vomiting or changes in bowel habit. His vital signs are within normal limits, and bowel sounds are audible. A CT scan of the pelvis is performed, the findings of which are depicted in the image. Given the clinical context and the information revealed by the imaging study, what is the most appropriate immediate management strategy?

A. Urgent surgical consultation for operative intervention.
B. Attempt manual reduction under adequate analgesia and sedation.
C. Request an urgent Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow to the contents.
D. Initiate intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics and monitor closely.
E. Arrange for elective hernia repair in the coming weeks.
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents to the ED with a painful lump in his groin that has been present for 3 days. He reports nausea but denies vomiting. His vital signs are stable. An abdominal CT is performed, and a slice is shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Initiate broad-spectrum antibiotics
B. Trial of manual reduction in the ED
C. Administer analgesia and observe for spontaneous resolution
D. Surgical consultation for emergent repair
E. Increase dietary fiber and schedule outpatient follow-up
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents with abdominal pain, distension, and obstipation for 3 days, with a history of multiple abdominal surgeries. Vitals are HR 110, BP 110/70, T 37.8. Exam shows a distended abdomen with high-pitched bowel sounds. An upright abdominal X-ray is shown. Considering the clinical context and the imaging findings, which of the following is the MOST likely expected outcome with initial non-operative management?

A. Requirement for immediate surgical intervention
B. Resolution of symptoms within 48-72 hours
C. Spontaneous resolution within minutes of presentation
D. Need for long-term parenteral nutrition
E. Development of large bowel obstruction
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents to the ED with abdominal distension, obstipation, and vomiting. He reports a history of multiple abdominal surgeries. An upright abdominal X-ray is performed. Based on the image, what is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Barium enema
B. CT abdomen with IV contrast
C. Colonoscopy
D. Stool softeners and increased oral fluids
E. Surgical consultation
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male infant presents with a 1-week history of progressively worsening non-bilious vomiting, often projectile, occurring shortly after feeds. His parents report he is constantly hungry and irritable but has had poor weight gain. On examination, he is alert but appears thin. Vital signs are stable. Abdominal examination is soft, non-tender, with no palpable mass. An abdominal ultrasound is performed, the image of which is shown. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings depicted, what is the most appropriate initial management strategy?

A. Referral to a paediatric gastroenterologist for further investigation
B. Discharge home with advice on smaller, more frequent feeds
C. Urgent upper gastrointestinal contrast study
D. Surgical pyloromyotomy after fluid and electrolyte correction
E. Trial of antiemetic medication and thickened feeds
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male infant presents with a 1-week history of progressively worsening non-bilious vomiting, often projectile, occurring shortly after feeds. His parents report he is constantly hungry and irritable but has had poor weight gain. On examination, he is alert but appears thin. Vital signs are stable. Abdominal examination is soft, non-tender, with no palpable mass. An abdominal ultrasound is performed, the image of which is shown. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings depicted, what is the most appropriate definitive management strategy after initial fluid and electrolyte correction?

A. Trial of antiemetic medication
B. Laparoscopic pyloromyotomy
C. Barium meal study
D. Discharge home with feeding advice
E. Endoscopic balloon dilation
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Elective abdominal ultrasonography of a 64 year old woman with past colicky pain but no current pain. It shows a mildly dilated common bile duct with what appears to be a gallstone (black arrow). The green and blue dots are blood flow, since the exam is done as a Doppler ultrasound to distinguish the bile duct from blood vessels.
Image by Mikael Häggström CC0 1.0 · Source

A 64-year-old woman reports intermittent RUQ pain. She denies jaundice or fever. An abdominal ultrasound was performed, image shown. Besides referral for surgery, what is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Start prophylactic antibiotics
B. Repeat ultrasound in 6 months
C. Administer ursodeoxycholic acid
D. Prescribe a low-fat diet
E. Arrange an MRCP
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old male presents with abdominal distension, vomiting, and inability to pass flatus for 48 hours. He has a history of prior bowel resection. Examination reveals a tympanitic abdomen and tenderness to palpation. His vitals are stable. An abdominal X-ray is performed, as shown. Considering the clinical context and the radiographic findings, what is the primary purpose of inserting a nasogastric tube in this patient?

A. Obtaining a sample of gastric contents for analysis.
B. Administering oral contrast for further imaging.
C. Decompressing the dilated bowel loops and reducing vomiting.
D. Providing nutritional support to the patient.
E. Facilitating the passage of flatus.
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Clinical aspects of mammary Paget's disease occurred on the thoracic wall where simple mastectomy was performed some years before.
Image by Monica Giovannini, Carmelo D'Atri, Quirino Piubello, Annamaria Molino CC BY-SA 2.0 · Source

A 68-year-old woman presents with a persistent rash following a mastectomy 5 years prior. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Skin biopsy
B. Reassurance and observation
C. Topical corticosteroids
D. Mammogram of the contralateral breast
E. Excisional biopsy with wide margins
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Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 4-week-old male presents with projectile vomiting after feeding. He is irritable and appears dehydrated. An upper GI series is performed, as shown. After addressing immediate concerns, what is the MOST appropriate next step?

A. Perform an upper endoscopy with biopsy
B. Administer intravenous antibiotics
C. Surgical pyloromyotomy
D. Start H2 receptor antagonist therapy
E. Initiate a trial of thickened feeds
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Acute cholecystitis with gallbladder wall thickening, a large gallstone, and a large gallbladder
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 65-year-old male presents with 2 days of constant right upper quadrant pain radiating to the back, associated with nausea and subjective fever. On examination, he is febrile (38.5°C) with significant tenderness and a positive Murphy's sign in the right upper quadrant. His white cell count is elevated at 15 x 10^9/L, and CRP is 120 mg/L. Liver function tests are within normal limits. Considering the clinical presentation and the provided imaging, what is the most appropriate timing for definitive surgical management?

A. Within 72 hours of admission
B. Only if symptoms fail to resolve with antibiotics
C. Following a trial of percutaneous drainage
D. Urgently, within 6 hours
E. After 6-8 weeks of medical management
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Inguinal hernia right view. Adult male with an inguinal hernia, showing bulging in the groin area.
Image by IkeTheSloth CC0 1.0 · Source

A 62-year-old male presents with a 6-month history of a painless swelling in his right groin, visible especially when standing. Examination reveals the finding in the image. The mass reduces when lying down. What is the MOST appropriate initial management?

A. Prescription of a truss support
B. Referral for physiotherapy
C. Referral for elective surgical repair
D. Urgent surgical consultation
E. Reassurance and observation
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents to the ED with a painful lump in his groin that has been present for 3 days. He reports nausea but denies vomiting. His vital signs are stable. An abdominal CT is performed, and a slice is shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Trial of manual reduction in the ED
B. Surgical consultation for emergent repair
C. Prescribe analgesics and discharge with surgical referral
D. Increase dietary fiber and schedule outpatient follow-up
E. Initiate intravenous antibiotics
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A 68-year-old man with a history of diverticulosis presents with recurrent, large volume rectal bleeding. Initial colonoscopy failed to identify or control the source. He remains haemodynamically stable after resuscitation. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Repeat colonoscopy with epinephrine injection
B. Administration of intravenous octreotide
C. Initiation of high-dose proton pump inhibitor therapy
D. Urgent surgical colectomy
E. Angiography with embolization
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents to the emergency department with a 12-hour history of severe, constant left groin pain. He reports a bulge in his groin that has been present for several years, which he can usually reduce himself. However, today he has been unable to push it back in, and the pain has become excruciating. He denies any fever, nausea, or vomiting. On examination, his vital signs are stable: temperature 37.0°C, heart rate 88 bpm, blood pressure 130/80 mmHg, respiratory rate 16 breaths/min, and oxygen saturation 98% on room air. Abdominal examination is unremarkable. Palpation of the left groin reveals a firm, tender mass that is non-reducible. The overlying skin is erythematous, but there is no crepitus. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed, and an axial slice is shown. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the image, what is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Attempt manual reduction of the mass under conscious sedation
B. Order an urgent ultrasound of the groin to assess for vascular compromise
C. Administer intravenous fluids and analgesia, then observe for signs of spontaneous reduction over 24 hours
D. Urgent surgical consultation for operative management
E. Prescribe oral antibiotics and arrange for outpatient surgical review within one week
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male presents with projectile vomiting after feeds. He is otherwise well-appearing, with normal vital signs. An abdominal ultrasound is performed (image attached). What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Initiate a proton pump inhibitor
B. Surgical consultation for pyloromyotomy
C. Reassurance and close follow-up
D. Upper endoscopy with biopsy
E. Trial of thickened feeds
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old male presents with abdominal distension, vomiting, and inability to pass flatus for 48 hours. He has a history of prior bowel resection. Examination reveals a tympanitic abdomen and tenderness to palpation. His vitals are stable. An abdominal X-ray is performed, as shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Insert a nasogastric tube and administer intravenous fluids
B. Administer a Fleet enema
C. Order a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with intravenous contrast
D. Administer oral contrast and repeat abdominal X-ray in 6 hours
E. Perform a flexible sigmoidoscopy to rule out sigmoid volvulus
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CT, ultrasonography, SPECT and scintigraphy of intra-thyroid parathyroid adenoma
Image by Mnahi Bin Saeedan, Ibtisam Musallam Aljohani, Ayman Omar Khushaim, Salwa Qasim Bukhari, Salahudin Tayeb Elnaas CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 62-year-old woman presents to her general practitioner complaining of fatigue, bone pain, and constipation for the past several months. She denies any significant past medical history and is on no regular medications. Physical examination is unremarkable, and vital signs are within normal limits. Initial laboratory investigations reveal an elevated serum calcium level of 3.1 mmol/L (reference range: 2.1-2.6 mmol/L) and an elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) level of 180 pg/mL (reference range: 10-65 pg/mL). A 24-hour urine calcium excretion is also elevated. The patient is referred for further imaging, the results of which are shown. Based on the available information, what is the MOST appropriate next step in the definitive management of this patient?

A. Long-term medical management with cinacalcet
B. Parathyroidectomy
C. Dietary calcium restriction
D. Bisphosphonate therapy
E. Repeat imaging studies in 6 months
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CT, ultrasonography, SPECT and scintigraphy of intra-thyroid parathyroid adenoma
Image by Mnahi Bin Saeedan, Ibtisam Musallam Aljohani, Ayman Omar Khushaim, Salwa Qasim Bukhari, Salahudin Tayeb Elnaas CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 62-year-old woman presents to her general practitioner complaining of fatigue, bone pain, and constipation for the past several months. She denies any significant past medical history. Initial laboratory investigations reveal an elevated serum calcium level of 3.1 mmol/L (reference range: 2.1-2.6 mmol/L) and an elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) level of 180 pg/mL (reference range: 10-65 pg/mL). A 24-hour urine calcium excretion is also elevated. The patient is referred for further imaging, the results of which are shown. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings from the imaging studies, which of the following surgical approaches is MOST likely to be indicated?

A. Total thyroidectomy
B. Subtotal parathyroidectomy
C. Radiofrequency ablation of the lesion
D. Bilateral neck exploration
E. Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy
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