Practice 180 MCQs on Lower Limb Anatomy MCQ Compilation with OmpathStudy. Built for Kenyan medical and health students to revise key concepts and prepare for...
Q1. Tensor fasciae latae is supplied by:
Answer: Superior gluteal nerve
Explanation: Tensor fasciae latae is innervated by the superior gluteal nerve (L4, L5, S1). This nerve emerges from the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen above the piriformis muscle and supplies tensor fasciae latae, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus.
Q2. Which structure is intrasynovial at the knee joint:
Answer: None of the above
Explanation: While the cruciate ligaments and tendon of popliteus are intracapsular (inside the fibrous capsule), they are actually extrasynovial as they are covered by synovial membrane. The menisci are also intracapsular but not truly intrasynovial.
Q3. The 'screw-home' movement in extension of the knee joint begins with tightening of the:
Answer: Anterior cruciate ligament
Explanation: The screw-home mechanism involves automatic lateral rotation of the tibia on the femur during the last 20-30 degrees of extension. This is initiated by tightening of the anterior cruciate ligament, which causes the tibia to rotate laterally to achieve full extension and "lock" the knee.
Q4. Tibialis anterior:
Answer: Tendon perforates the superior extensor retinaculum
Explanation: The tendon of tibialis anterior passes through the superior extensor retinaculum at the ankle. It is supplied by the deep peroneal nerve (not tibial), inserts into the medial cuneiform and base of the first metatarsal, and arises from the lateral tibia and interosseous membrane.
Q5. The adductor canal:
Answer: Always has the femoral artery lying between the saphenous nerve and the femoral vein
Explanation: In the adductor canal (Hunter's canal), the femoral artery is positioned between the saphenous nerve (laterally) and the femoral vein (medially/posteriorly). The canal contains the femoral vessels, saphenous nerve, and nerve to vastus medialis, and ends at the adductor hiatus in adductor magnus.
Q6. The great saphenous vein:
Answer: Enters the femoral vein on its anteromedial side
Explanation: The great saphenous vein pierces the cribriform fascia and enters the femoral vein on its anteromedial aspect below the inguinal ligament. It begins from the medial end of the dorsal venous arch, passes anterior (not posterior) to the medial malleolus, and is only accompanied by the saphenous nerve in the lower leg.
Q7. Regarding the femoral artery:
Answer: The femoral vein is always on its medial side
Explanation: The lateral circumflex femoral artery, a branch of the profunda femoris, passes laterally between the divisions of the femoral nerve, separating the superficial and deep branches. The profunda femoris arises from the posterolateral aspect of the femoral artery.
Q8. Gluteus maximus:
Answer: Is the chief control of hip flexion
Explanation: Gluteus maximus is the chief EXTENSOR (not flexor) of the hip, particularly important when rising from sitting, climbing stairs, and running. It receives blood from both superior and inferior gluteal arteries, and the majority of its fibers insert into the iliotibial tract rather than the gluteal tuberosity.
Q9. Regarding the adductor compartment:
Answer: The hamstring part of adductor magnus is supplied by the tibial part of the sciatic nerve
Explanation: Adductor magnus is a composite muscle. The adductor portion is supplied by the obturator nerve, while the hamstring (ischiocondylar) portion is supplied by the tibial division of the sciatic nerve. This dual innervation reflects its dual embryological origin.
Q10. Which vessel is NOT involved in the trochanteric anastomosis?
Answer: Obturator artery
Explanation: The trochanteric anastomosis around the greater trochanter involves branches from the superior and inferior gluteal arteries, medial and lateral circumflex femoral arteries, but NOT the obturator artery. This anastomosis provides collateral circulation to the hip region.
Q11. The sciatic nerve:
Answer: Lies deep to the posterior femoral cutaneous nerve
Explanation: The sciatic nerve lies deep (anterior) to the posterior femoral cutaneous nerve in the gluteal region. It emerges below (not over) piriformis, is derived from L4, L5, S1, S2, S3, and typically divides into tibial and common peroneal components in the lower thigh.
Q12. Which is the odd one out?
Answer: Superior gluteal nerve
Explanation: The superior gluteal nerve is the only structure that emerges ABOVE piriformis through the greater sciatic foramen. All the other structures (sciatic nerve, nerve to obturator internus, pudendal nerve, and posterior femoral cutaneous nerve) emerge BELOW piriformis.
Q13. Regarding the hamstring compartment:
Answer: Ischial fibres of adductor magnus degenerate to form the tibial collateral ligament
Explanation: The hamstring part of adductor magnus has some fibers that insert as a tendon onto the adductor tubercle, and phylogenetically these fibers are related to the medial (tibial) collateral ligament. The oblique popliteal ligament is an expansion of semimembranosus, not biceps femoris.
Q14. Regarding the popliteal vessels:
Answer: The middle genicular artery supplies the cruciate ligaments
Explanation: The middle genicular artery is a small branch that pierces the posterior capsule of the knee joint to supply the cruciate ligaments and synovial membrane. The popliteal vein lies between the artery and tibial nerve (artery is deepest), and the popliteal artery enters on the medial side.
Q15. At the knee joint:
Answer: The cruciate ligaments are sensitive and the menisci are not
Explanation: The cruciate ligaments are richly innervated and sensitive to pain and proprioception. The menisci have nerve supply only at their peripheral attachments, with the central portions being relatively avascular and aneural. The fibular collateral ligament is NOT attached to the lateral meniscus.
Q16. Regarding nerve supply of the lower limb:
Answer: The cruciate ligaments are supplied by the tibial nerve
Explanation: The cruciate ligaments receive innervation from branches of the tibial nerve (part of the articular branch supply to the knee joint). The anterior compartment is supplied by the deep peroneal nerve, and obturator internus is supplied by the nerve to obturator internus (not the obturator nerve).
Q17. Regarding flexor digitorum longus:
Answer: The medial two tendons receive a strong slip from the tendon of flexor hallucis longus
Explanation: In the sole of the foot, the tendon of flexor hallucis longus sends a strong slip to join the medial two tendons of flexor digitorum longus. The four tendons divide in the sole (not under the retinaculum), and they insert into the bases of the distal (not middle) phalanges.
Q18. The following are branches of the femoral artery except:
Answer: Middle genicular artery
Explanation: The middle genicular artery is a branch of the popliteal artery (not the femoral artery). It pierces the posterior capsule of the knee to supply the cruciate ligaments. The superficial branches and deep external pudendal artery are all direct branches of the femoral artery.
Q19. The following cutaneous nerves of the thigh are derived in part from the second lumbar nerve except:
Answer: Ilioinguinal
Explanation: The ilioinguinal nerve arises from L1 only. The medial femoral cutaneous (L2-L3), obturator (L2-L4), lateral femoral cutaneous (L2-L3), and genitofemoral (L1-L2) nerves all have contributions from L2.
Q20. Which of the following, regarding the great saphenous vein, is INCORRECT?
Answer: It passes behind the medial malleolus
Explanation: The great saphenous vein passes ANTERIOR (in front of) the medial malleolus, not behind it. All other statements are correct. The vein ascends on the medial aspect of the leg and thigh.
Q21. Cutaneous nerve supply of the thigh involves all but which of the following:
Answer: The intermediate femoral cutaneous nerve
Explanation: The genital branch of the genitofemoral nerve supplies the scrotum/labia majora and cremaster muscle, NOT the thigh skin. All others provide cutaneous innervation to the thigh.
Q22. The patellar plexus takes twigs from all but which of the following?
Answer: Infrapatellar branch of the common peroneal nerve
Explanation: The patellar plexus receives contributions from saphenous nerve, medial, intermediate, and lateral femoral cutaneous nerves. There is NO infrapatellar branch from the common peroneal nerve.
Q23. The inferior gluteal nerve supplies:
Answer: Gluteus maximus
Explanation: Inferior gluteal nerve (L5, S1, S2) supplies ONLY gluteus maximus. Gluteus medius and minimus are supplied by the superior gluteal nerve.
Q24. Within the buttock:
Answer: The pudendal nerve emerges beneath piriformis, turns around the back of the sacrospinous ligament and passes between the sacrotuberous and sacrospinous ligaments
Explanation: Pudendal nerve exits below piriformis, hooks around the sacrospinous ligament, and re-enters pelvis through lesser sciatic foramen. The sciatic nerve is L4-S3 (not just L4,5,S1).
Q25. With respect to the ligaments around the knee joint:
Answer: The fibular collateral ligament blends with the capsule and is attached to the lateral meniscus
Explanation: The tibial (medial) collateral ligament is firmly attached to the medial meniscus and joint capsule. The fibular collateral ligament is NOT attached to the lateral meniscus. Oblique popliteal ligament is from semimembranosus.
Q26. With respect to the posterior compartment of the leg, which is FALSE?
Answer: Plantaris arises from the lower part of the lateral supracondylar line and is absent in 10%
Explanation: The small saphenous vein drains the LATERAL (not medial) side of the dorsal venous arch and lateral margin of the foot. The great saphenous drains the medial side.
Q27. The myotome for plantar flexion of the great toe is:
Answer: L3, 4
Explanation: Plantar flexion of the great toe (flexor hallucis longus) is primarily S1, S2. Remember: ankle plantarflexion is also S1, S2.
Q28. With respect to the hip bone:
Answer: The pelvic rim is formed by the iliac crest, tubercular area and pectineal line
Explanation: A line through the highest points of the iliac crests (supracristal line) passes through the L4 vertebral spine - important landmark for lumbar puncture.
Q29. Which of the following structures is NOT found in the adductor (subsartorial) canal?
Answer: Femoral artery
Explanation: The femoral nerve divides in the femoral triangle and does NOT enter the adductor canal. The canal contains: femoral artery and vein, saphenous nerve, and nerve to vastus medialis.
Q30. The surface markings of the sciatic nerve are from:
Answer: The ischial tuberosity to the adductor tubercle of the medial femoral condyle
Explanation: Sciatic nerve surface marking: from the midpoint between ischial tuberosity and greater trochanter, descending to the apex of the popliteal fossa (where it typically divides).
Q31. The femoral canal:
Answer: Is the lateral compartment of the femoral sheath
Explanation: The femoral canal is the MEDIAL compartment of the femoral sheath, lying medial to the femoral vein. It normally contains lymphatics and the lymph node of Cloquet; it's the site of femoral hernias.
Q32. The great saphenous vein:
Answer: Commences at the medial end of the dorsal venous arch
Explanation: Great saphenous vein begins at the medial end of the dorsal venous arch. It passes ANTERIOR to the medial malleolus (not behind), and is only accompanied by the saphenous nerve in the lower leg.
Q33. Which is NOT true of the tendoachilles?
Answer: It inserts into the middle third of the posterior surface of the calcaneus
Explanation: The Achilles tendon is NOT invested in a synovial sheath (unlike many other tendons). It has bursae associated with it but no true synovial sheath.
Q34. Which of the following structures lies within the knee joint?
Answer: Patellar ligament
Explanation: The tendon of popliteus is intracapsular (within the fibrous capsule), passing through the joint. The collateral ligaments and patellar structures are extracapsular.
Q35. Following an injury to the leg, a patient is unable to dorsiflex their foot. Which nerve is most likely to be damaged?
Answer: The deep branch of the common peroneal nerve
Explanation: The deep peroneal nerve supplies the anterior compartment muscles (tibialis anterior, extensor hallucis longus, extensor digitorum longus) which are responsible for dorsiflexion.
Q36. With respect to peroneus longus:
Answer: It inserts into the base of the 5th metatarsal
Explanation: Peroneus longus is supplied by the superficial peroneal nerve (L5, S1). It inserts into the base of the 1st metatarsal and medial cuneiform (not 5th metatarsal - that's peroneus brevis). It arises from the fibula.
Q37. The stability of the weightbearing flexed knee is maintained by:
Answer: Anterior cruciate ligament
Explanation: The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is the primary stabilizer of the flexed, weight-bearing knee. It prevents posterior displacement of the tibia on the femur when the knee is flexed.
Q38. Regarding the femoral triangle:
Answer: The lateral border of the adductor longus makes up its medial boundary
Explanation: The great (long) saphenous vein pierces the cribriform fascia and joins the femoral vein within the femoral triangle at the saphenous opening.
Q39. Inversion of the foot is performed by which pair of muscles?
Answer: Peroneus longus and peroneus brevis
Explanation: Inversion is performed by tibialis anterior (dorsiflexion + inversion) and tibialis posterior (plantarflexion + inversion). Peroneus muscles cause eversion.
Q40. The anterior tibial artery:
Answer: Pierces the interosseous membrane
Explanation: The anterior tibial artery lies lateral to tibialis anterior in the anterior compartment. It pierces the interosseous membrane to enter the anterior compartment from the posterior, and lies medial to the deep peroneal nerve.
Q41. The suprapatellar bursa:
Answer: Does not communicate with the knee joint
Explanation: The suprapatellar bursa extends approximately 5cm (two finger breadths) above the patella, lying between the femur and quadriceps tendon. It communicates freely with the knee joint cavity.
Q42. Which of the following does NOT apply to the popliteus muscle?
Answer: It inserts into the lateral meniscus of the knee joint
Explanation: Popliteus FLEXES the knee and "unlocks" it by laterally rotating the femur on the fixed tibia (or medially rotating the tibia on the femur). It does NOT extend the knee.
Q43. A 30 year old man presents with adenopathy of the medial group of superficial inguinal lymph nodes on the right side. Which of the following is the primary site resulting in this finding?
Answer: Right testis
Explanation: Medial superficial inguinal nodes drain the perineum, including the lower anal canal, external genitalia (except testes), and lower vagina/urethra. Testes drain to para-aortic nodes.
Q44. Regarding the femoral artery:
Answer: It enters the thigh directly beneath the deep inguinal ring
Explanation: The femoral artery gives superficial branches (superficial epigastric, superficial circumflex iliac, superficial and deep external pudendal) and the profunda femoris. It enters at the mid-inguinal point and lies medial to the femoral nerve.
Q45. Regarding the popliteal fossa:
Answer: The common peroneal nerve passes through the lateral part of the fossa
Explanation: The common peroneal nerve runs along the lateral border of the popliteal fossa (following biceps femoris tendon). The fossa contains lymph nodes, and the popliteal artery is the deepest structure.
Q46. Regarding the movements at the knee joint:
Answer: Popliteus 'unlocks' the extended knee by producing medial rotation of the femur
Explanation: In full extension, the knee is "locked" and no active rotation is possible. Rotation only occurs when the knee is flexed. Popliteus unlocks the knee by laterally rotating the femur (or medially rotating the tibia).
Q47. The dorsalis pedis artery:
Answer: Lies medial to the tendon of extensor hallucis longus
Explanation: Dorsalis pedis passes into the sole through the first intermetatarsal space to join the lateral plantar artery, forming the deep plantar arch. It lies lateral to extensor hallucis longus and medial to the deep peroneal nerve.
Q48. A 25 year old man is unable to plantar flex his foot. The most likely cause is damage to:
Answer: The superficial peroneal nerve
Explanation: The tibial nerve supplies all the plantarflexors (gastrocnemius, soleus, plantaris, tibialis posterior, flexor digitorum longus, flexor hallucis longus). Damage to this nerve would cause loss of plantarflexion.
Q49. Which of the following is NOT a component of the second layer of the sole of the foot?
Answer: Tendon of flexor hallucis longus
Explanation: The second layer consists of: flexor digitorum longus tendons, flexor hallucis longus tendon, quadratus plantae (flexor accessorius), and lumbricals. Abductor hallucis is in the first (superficial) layer.
Q50. Which of the following structures does NOT pass through the greater sciatic foramen?
Answer: The sciatic nerve
Explanation: The nerve to obturator externus is a branch of the obturator nerve and passes through the obturator foramen, NOT the greater sciatic foramen. All others pass through the greater sciatic foramen.
Q51. The psoas muscle:
Answer: Passes across the front of the capsule of the hip joint
Explanation: Psoas major passes anterior to the hip joint capsule (separated by a bursa). It inserts into the lesser trochanter, is a hip flexor and weak lateral rotator, and is supplied by L1-3 nerve roots directly from the lumbar plexus.
Q52. The femoral nerve:
Answer: Is formed from the anterior divisions of the anterior primary rami of L2-4
Explanation: Both femoral and obturator nerves are formed from L2, L3, L4. Femoral = posterior divisions; obturator = anterior divisions. Femoral nerve divides IN the femoral triangle and has multiple cutaneous branches.
Q53. The peroneus longus muscle:
Answer: Passes superficial to the superior peroneal retinaculum
Explanation: Peroneus longus passes deep to the peroneal retinacula, inserts into the base of the 1st metatarsal and medial cuneiform, is supplied by superficial peroneal nerve, and supports the lateral longitudinal arch.
Q54. The short saphenous vein:
Answer: Lies anterior to the lateral malleolus
Explanation: The short (small) saphenous vein drains the lateral foot and posterior calf. It passes posterior to the lateral malleolus, ascends in the midline of the calf, and drains into the popliteal vein.
Q55. Following a subcapital fracture of the neck of the femur, an 80 year old man sustains avascular necrosis of the femoral head. This is most likely to be the consequence of interruption to the blood supply to the head from which of the following sources:
Answer: Arteries from trochanteric anastomosis in the retinacula
Explanation: The main blood supply to the femoral head comes from retinacular arteries (branches of medial and lateral circumflex femoral arteries) that run along the femoral neck. Subcapital fractures interrupt these vessels, causing avascular necrosis.
Q56. Which structure does NOT pass under the inguinal ligament?
Answer: Femoral vein
Explanation: The great saphenous vein does NOT pass under the inguinal ligament. It pierces the cribriform fascia in the saphenous opening BELOW the inguinal ligament to join the femoral vein.
Q57. Regarding the femoral triangle:
Answer: Adductor magnus makes up part of the floor
Explanation: In the femoral sheath, from lateral to medial: femoral artery (lateral compartment), femoral vein (intermediate compartment), femoral canal (medial compartment). Floor includes adductor longus, not magnus.
Q58. Regarding the femoral nerve, all of the following are true EXCEPT:
Answer: The superficial group consists of two cutaneous and two muscular branches
Explanation: The nerve to vastus medialis passes down with the femoral vessels in the adductor canal, but it typically lies LATERAL (not medial) to the femoral artery.
Q59. Regarding the hip joint all of the following statements are true EXCEPT:
Answer: The anterior fibres of the gluteus medius and minimus act as medial rotators of the hip joint
Explanation: Gluteus medius and minimus are supplied by the SUPERIOR gluteal nerve (not inferior). The inferior gluteal nerve supplies only gluteus maximus.
Q60. Regarding the popliteal fossa, which of the following statements is true?
Answer: The common peroneal nerve slopes downwards lateral to the biceps tendon
Explanation: The middle genicular artery pierces the posterior capsule to supply the cruciate ligaments and synovial membrane. The sural nerve is from the tibial nerve (not common peroneal), and popliteus is supplied by the tibial nerve.
Q61. Regarding the extensor compartment of the lower leg, all of the following statements are true EXCEPT:
Answer: The tibialis anterior muscle is supplied by the deep peroneal and recurrent genicular nerves (L4)
Explanation: Extensor hallucis longus arises from the middle two-fourths of the FIBULA (not tibia) and the adjacent interosseous membrane. All other statements are correct.
Q62. Regarding the foot, all of the following statements are true EXCEPT:
Answer: The tibialis posterior muscle inverts and adducts the forefoot
Explanation: The skin of the heel is supplied by calcaneal branches of the TIBIAL nerve (not deep peroneal). The deep peroneal nerve supplies skin only in the first web space.
Q63. The popliteal artery:
Answer: Is superficial to the tibial nerve
Explanation: The popliteal artery gives the middle genicular artery which supplies the cruciate ligaments. It extends from the adductor hiatus in adductor MAGNUS (not longus), is the deepest structure in the fossa, and has 5 genicular branches.
Q64. The obturator nerve:
Answer: Adductor magnus
Explanation: The obturator nerve supplies the adductor compartment including adductor magnus (adductor part only - hamstring part is supplied by tibial nerve). It does NOT supply obturator internus, quadratus femoris, sartorius, or inferior gemellus.
Q65. Which of the following is correctly paired?
Answer: Adductor brevis – femoral nerve
Explanation: Adductor longus is supplied by the obturator nerve (anterior division). Adductor brevis is also obturator nerve. Adductor magnus has dual supply: obturator (adductor part) and tibial (hamstring part).
Q66. The anterior cruciate ligament:
Answer: Lies within the synovial membrane of the knee joint
Explanation: The ACL is intracapsular but EXTRAsynovial (covered by synovial membrane). It attaches to the LATERAL femoral condyle (not medial), prevents ANTERIOR displacement of the tibia on the femur, and initiates (but doesn't produce) screw-home mechanism.
Q67. The surface marking for the femoral nerve is:
Answer: Midway between the A.S.I.S. and pubic tubercle
Explanation: The femoral nerve lies approximately 1cm lateral to the femoral artery, which is at the mid-inguinal point (midway between ASIS and pubic symphysis). The nerve is therefore approximately midway between ASIS and pubic tubercle.
Q68. In the popliteal fossa, the deepest of these structures is:
Answer: Popliteal vein
Explanation: From superficial to deep in the popliteal fossa: tibial nerve, popliteal vein, popliteal artery (deepest). Remember the mnemonic from lateral to medial: "Serve And Volley Next Ball" (Sural, Arteries, Vein, tibial Nerve, Biceps).
Q69. Which of the following bursae is most likely to communicate with the knee joint?
Answer: Deep infrapatellar bursa
Explanation: The suprapatellar bursa almost always communicates with the knee joint cavity. It extends 5cm above the patella between the femur and quadriceps tendon. The semimembranosus bursa may occasionally communicate.
Q70. In the femoral triangle:
Answer: The femoral nerve emerges from the femoral sheath
Explanation: The femoral branch of the genitofemoral nerve pierces the anterior wall of the femoral sheath. The femoral nerve does NOT enter the sheath; it lies lateral to it. The profunda femoris arises from the lateral (not medial) aspect of the femoral artery.
Q71. The iliotibial tract is the conjoined aponeurosis of the tensor fasciae latae and:
Answer: Gluteus minimus
Explanation: The iliotibial tract receives insertions from both tensor fasciae latae (anteriorly) and gluteus maximus (posteriorly - about 75% of its fibers). It provides lateral knee stability and assists in hip movements.
Q72. Fourth lumbar nerve root supplies:
Answer: Hip flexors
Explanation: L4 is the primary myotome for ankle dorsiflexion, mainly via tibialis anterior. L4 also contributes to knee extension (quadriceps). The big toe is L5 territory, and hip flexors are primarily L2-L3.
Q73. The base of Scarpa's femoral triangle is formed by:
Answer: Sartorius
Explanation: The femoral triangle boundaries are: base (superior) = inguinal ligament; lateral border = medial edge of sartorius; medial border = medial edge of adductor longus; apex points inferiorly.
Q74. Passing through the greater sciatic notch deep to the sciatic nerve is which of the following?
Answer: Internal pudendal vessels and nerve
Explanation: The nerve to quadratus femoris passes deep to (anterior to) the sciatic nerve. The pudendal nerve and vessels pass superficial to the sciatic nerve before hooking around the sacrospinous ligament.
Q75. The femoral vein lies …….. to the femoral artery in the femoral sheath:
Answer: Lateral
Explanation: Within the femoral sheath, from lateral to medial: femoral artery (lateral compartment), femoral vein (intermediate compartment), femoral canal (medial compartment). The vein is therefore medial to the artery.
Q76. The main function of gluteus maximus is which of the following:
Answer: A site for injections
Explanation: The primary function of gluteus maximus is hip extension and lateral rotation. It's most active during climbing stairs, rising from sitting, and running. Options A and B describe incidental features, not functions.
Q77. Tensor fascia latae:
Answer: Is quadrangular in shape
Explanation: Tensor fasciae latae and sartorius both arise from the ASIS region and lie adjacent to each other. TFL is supplied by the superior gluteal nerve (not femoral), and it flexes (not extends) the hip.
Q78. The superior gluteal nerve supplies:
Answer: Gluteus medius
Explanation: The superior gluteal nerve (L4, L5, S1) supplies all three muscles: gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, and tensor fasciae latae. These are the hip abductors essential for normal gait.
Q79. The hamstring muscles originate from:
Answer: Body of the ischium
Explanation: The hamstring muscles (semitendinosus, semimembranosus, and long head of biceps femoris) arise from the ischial tuberosity. The short head of biceps femoris arises from the femur and is not a true hamstring.
Q80. The upper tibial epiphysis appears at:
Answer: Birth
Explanation: The proximal tibial epiphysis is present at birth (one of the few lower limb epiphyses present at birth, along with distal femur). It fuses with the shaft around 16-18 years of age.
Q81. At birth:
Answer: All the tarsal bones are ossified
Explanation: At birth, three tarsal bones are ossified: calcaneus, talus, and cuboid. The other tarsal bones ossify postnatally (navicular around 3 years, cuneiforms 1-3 years).
Q82. Which of the following is found in the popliteal fossa?
Answer: Sciatic nerve
Explanation: The common peroneal nerve runs along the lateral border of the popliteal fossa (following the medial border of biceps femoris tendon). The sciatic nerve typically divides above the fossa, and the femoral vessels are in the anterior thigh.
Q83. The short saphenous vein passes below and behind the:
Answer: Medial malleolus
Explanation: The small (short) saphenous vein passes posterior to the lateral malleolus, ascends the midline of the calf, and typically drains into the popliteal vein in the popliteal fossa.
Q84. When standing, the knee joint is locked in extension by:
Answer: Lateral rotation of the tibia
Explanation: The "screw-home" mechanism locks the knee in full extension through medial rotation of the femur on the fixed tibia (or lateral rotation of the tibia on the femur). This provides maximum stability for standing.
Q85. The posterior cutaneous nerve of the thigh:
Answer: Consists only of S2, 3
Explanation: The posterior cutaneous nerve of thigh (S1-3) gives perineal branches that supply the scrotum/labia majora. It travels deep to fascia lata initially, then pierces it to become superficial. It emerges below (not above) piriformis.
Q86. The deep peroneal nerve supplies:
Answer: Skin between the first and second toes
Explanation: The deep peroneal nerve has a very limited cutaneous distribution: only the skin of the first web space (between the first and second toes). It primarily supplies the anterior compartment muscles.
Q87. Attached to lateral meniscus is which of the following:
Answer: Posterior cruciate ligament
Explanation: The tendon of popliteus attaches to the lateral meniscus (posterior horn). The lateral (fibular) collateral ligament does NOT attach to the lateral meniscus, unlike the medial collateral which attaches to the medial meniscus.
Q88. The obturator nerve is derived from the anterior rami of:
Answer: T12, L1 and L2
Explanation: The obturator nerve arises from the anterior divisions of the anterior rami of L2, L3, and L4 (same spinal segments as the femoral nerve, but from anterior divisions instead of posterior).
Q89. The skin crease of the hip:
Answer: Is where the inguinal ligament is attached to the fascia lata
Explanation: The skin crease of the groin corresponds to where Scarpa's fascia (membranous layer of superficial fascia) fuses with the fascia lata of the thigh, just below the inguinal ligament.
Q90. Peroneus tertius:
Answer: Acts only to evert the foot
Explanation: Peroneus tertius typically inserts into the base (or occasionally the neck/shaft) of the fifth metatarsal. It arises from the lower fibula (not tibia), passes deep to the extensor retinaculum, is supplied by the deep peroneal nerve, and both dorsiflexes and everts the foot.
Q91. Structures closely related to long saphenous vein at ankle include which of the following?
Answer: Major perforating veins to deep venous system
Explanation: The great saphenous vein is accompanied by medial superficial lymphatic vessels throughout its course. At the ankle, it's accompanied by the saphenous nerve (a branch of the femoral nerve, but not the femoral nerve itself).
Q92. The only muscle to cross the anterior tibial artery is:
Answer: Extensor hallucis longus
Explanation: Extensor hallucis longus crosses over the anterior tibial artery from lateral to medial in the lower leg. This creates the relationship where, at the ankle, the artery lies lateral to extensor hallucis longus.
Q93. The dorsalis pedis artery is:
Answer: Lateral to extensor hallucis longus at the ankle
Explanation: The dorsalis pedis artery (continuation of anterior tibial artery) lies lateral to the tendon of extensor hallucis longus and medial to the deep peroneal nerve. It joins the lateral plantar artery (not medial) to form the plantar arch.
Q94. Features of the fibula include which of the following?
Answer: It is on the medial side of the tibia
Explanation: The medial surface of the fibula gives origin to tibialis posterior. The fibula is lateral to the tibia, ossifies from three centres (not five), does provide some origin for flexor digitorum longus, and soleus arises from the upper (not lower) fibula.
Q95. Which of the following is true of the saphenous nerve?
Answer: Is predominantly from L2
Explanation: The saphenous nerve is purely sensory (cutaneous only). It's predominantly from L3-L4, pierces the fascia lata in the lower leg (not in the femoral triangle), and extends down to the medial side of the foot.
Q96. The superficial epigastric, superficial circumflex iliac and deep external pudendal arteries are all branches of:
Answer: Profunda femoris
Explanation: These are all superficial branches of the femoral artery (not profunda femoris). They arise just below the inguinal ligament and supply the lower abdominal wall and external genitalia.
Q97. Which of the following is NOT a branch of the profunda femoris artery?
Answer: Medial femoral circumflex
Explanation: The popliteal artery is the continuation of the femoral artery beyond the adductor hiatus—it's NOT a branch of the profunda femoris. The profunda gives off the circumflex femoral arteries and four perforating arteries.
Q98. The long saphenous vein:
Answer: Passes anterior to the inguinal ligament
Explanation: The great saphenous vein receives superficial external pudendal tributaries that drain the perineum. It passes anterior (not posterior) to the medial malleolus, ascends the medial leg, and is only accompanied by the saphenous nerve in the lower leg.
Q99. The chief dorsiflexor of the ankle joint:
Answer: Peroneus tertius
Explanation: Tibialis anterior is the most powerful dorsiflexor of the ankle. While extensor hallucis longus, extensor digitorum longus, and peroneus tertius also contribute to dorsiflexion, tibialis anterior is the primary muscle.
Q100. Iliopsoas:
Answer: Supplied by obturator nerve
Explanation: Iliopsoas is a weak medial rotator of the hip (though its primary action is hip flexion). It's supplied by branches of the lumbar plexus (L1-3) and femoral nerve, not the obturator nerve.
Q101. The lumbar plexus is formed by ventral primary rami of:
Answer: T12, L1, L2 and L3
Explanation: The lumbar plexus is formed by the anterior (ventral) primary rami of L1, L2, L3, and L4 (with a small contribution from T12). L4 also contributes to the lumbosacral trunk.
Q102. The cutaneous nerve supplying the medial aspect of the calf is:
Answer: Anterior femoral cutaneous
Explanation: The saphenous nerve (terminal branch of the femoral nerve) supplies the skin over the medial leg from knee to medial malleolus and medial foot. The sural nerve supplies the lateral calf and foot.
Q103. The nerve supply to the knee joint comes from:
Answer: Sciatic
Explanation: Following Hilton's law, the knee joint receives innervation from all nerves that supply muscles crossing the joint: femoral nerve (quadriceps), obturator nerve (adductors), and sciatic nerve via its tibial and common peroneal divisions.
Q104. The most powerful extensor of the hip is:
Answer: Gluteus maximus
Explanation: Gluteus maximus is the strongest and most powerful extensor of the hip. It's particularly active during stair climbing, running, and rising from a seated position. Psoas and iliacus are hip flexors.
Q105. Which of the following is not an action of gracilis?
Answer: Adduction of thigh
Explanation: Gracilis does NOT extend the thigh—it's a hip adductor and assists with knee flexion and medial rotation of the flexed knee. Extension of the hip is performed by gluteus maximus and the hamstrings.
Q106. Obturator externus:
Answer: Is pierced by femoral circumflex artery
Explanation: Obturator externus is a lateral (external) rotator of the hip. It's supplied by the posterior division of the obturator nerve (L3, L4). It spirals posteriorly beneath the femoral neck.
Q107. The intermediate cutaneous nerve of the thigh:
Answer: Arises from the sacral plexus
Explanation: The intermediate femoral cutaneous nerve (branch of the femoral nerve) pierces the fascia lata and sartorius to supply the anterior thigh skin. It arises from the same trunk as the medial femoral cutaneous nerve.
Q108. The dorsalis pedis artery is a continuation of:
Answer: Anterior perforating branch of posterior tibial
Explanation: The dorsalis pedis artery is the direct continuation of the anterior tibial artery as it crosses the ankle joint onto the dorsum of the foot.
Q109. The lateral aspect of the thigh has a cutaneous nerve supply derived from:
Answer: L2 and 3
Explanation: The lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (lateral cutaneous nerve of thigh) arises from L2 and L3. It passes under or through the inguinal ligament near the ASIS to supply the lateral thigh.
Q110. The sole of the foot has a cutaneous nerve supply derived from:
Answer: L4, L5, S1 and S2
Explanation: The plantar aspect of the foot is supplied by the medial and lateral plantar nerves (branches of the tibial nerve), which are derived primarily from L5 and S1 nerve roots.
Q111. The adductor (subsartorial) canal of Hunter is bounded laterally by:
Answer: Adductor longus
Explanation: The adductor canal is bounded by: vastus medialis laterally, adductor longus and magnus medially (floor), and sartorius anteriorly (roof). The femoral vessels and saphenous nerve pass through it.
Q112. In the upper part of the popliteal fossa the following are found from medial to lateral:
Answer: Popliteal artery, popliteal vein, sciatic nerve
Explanation: In the upper popliteal fossa, from medial to lateral: popliteal artery (deepest), popliteal vein (intermediate), tibial nerve (most superficial/lateral). The sciatic nerve typically divides above the fossa.
Q113. Flexor digitorum longus:
Answer: Lies superficial to tibialis posterior
Explanation: All statements are correct. Flexor digitorum longus lies superficial to tibialis posterior, its muscle belly is medial to FHL, it arises from the tibia (and occasionally fibula), and its tendons receive slips from FHL in the sole.
Q114. Posterior tibial artery:
Answer: Arises at the upper border of popliteus
Explanation: Under the flexor retinaculum, from anterior to posterior: tibialis posterior tendon, flexor digitorum longus tendon, posterior tibial artery, tibial nerve, flexor hallucis longus tendon. The artery arises at the lower border of popliteus.
Q115. Flexor digitorum longus:
Answer: Crosses deep to tibialis posterior in calf
Explanation: In the sole, flexor digitorum longus crosses superficial (plantar) to flexor hallucis longus before dividing into four tendons. It's supplied by the tibial nerve (S2, S3), and is an invertor (not evertor).
Q116. The long saphenous vein:
Answer: Lies deep to the deep fascia only near its termination
Explanation: The great saphenous vein pierces the fascia lata (becomes deep) only at the saphenous opening before joining the femoral vein. It normally drains TO (not from) the deep system through perforating veins, and has multiple valves along its course.
Q117. Concerning the talus:
Answer: Blood supply to body enters only through the dorsum of the neck
Explanation: The talus is unique in having NO muscle attachments. Blood supply enters through multiple sites (not just the neck), the superior facet is broader anteriorly (for dorsiflexion stability), and it doesn't articulate with the cuboid.
Q118. Concerning the ankle:
Answer: Movements of dorsi and plantarflexion only are possible
Explanation: Flexor hallucis longus assists with plantarflexion at the ankle. The ankle joint is primarily a hinge joint (dorsiflexion/plantarflexion), doesn't communicate with the subtalar joint, and dorsiflexion is accompanied by slight abduction/eversion at the subtalar joint.
Q119. At the ankle, the posterior tibial nerve:
Answer: Has no further motor branches
Explanation: Under the flexor retinaculum at the ankle, the tibial nerve lies anterior to (more superficial than) flexor hallucis longus. It divides into medial and lateral plantar nerves, which have both motor and cutaneous branches.
Q120. Biceps femoris:
Answer: Inserts partially into the tibial condyle
Explanation: Biceps femoris inserts mainly into the head of the fibula, but some fibers insert into the lateral tibial condyle. It has an intramuscular tendon, the long head shares origin with semitendinosus (not semimembranosus), and it's supplied by L5, S1, S2.
Q121. Common peroneal nerve:
Answer: Supplies the knee joint
Explanation: The common peroneal nerve gives articular branches to the knee joint (following Hilton's law). It does NOT supply semitendinosus (that's the tibial nerve) or the sole of the foot (that's also tibial nerve territory).
Q122. On the front of the ankle joint, the tendon of extensor hallucis longus:
Answer: Is medial to tibialis anterior
Explanation: At the ankle, from medial to lateral: tibialis anterior, extensor hallucis longus, deep peroneal nerve, anterior tibial artery/dorsalis pedis, extensor digitorum longus. EHL is medial to the deep peroneal nerve and has a synovial sheath.
Q123. Iliofemoral ligament:
Answer: Limits hip flexion
Explanation: The iliofemoral ligament (Y-ligament of Bigelow) is the strongest ligament in the body. It becomes taut in extension, thereby limiting hip extension and hyperextension. It also limits external rotation and some adduction.
Q124. At the upper end of the femur:
Answer: Gluteus maximus is attached to a ridge on the posterior surface
Explanation: Gluteus maximus inserts into the gluteal tuberosity (ridge on posterior femur) and the iliotibial tract. Gluteus medius attaches to the lateral (not anterior) surface of the greater trochanter. The capsule attaches to the intertrochanteric line anteriorly, not the crest posteriorly.
Q125. Medial longitudinal plantar arch:
Answer: Raised by peroneus longus
Explanation: The medial longitudinal arch is supported by: spring ligament (plantar calcaneonavicular), long and short plantar ligaments, plantar aponeurosis, tibialis posterior, and flexor hallucis longus. Peroneus longus supports the lateral arch and transverse arch.
Q126. The femoral nerve:
Answer: Continues as a cutaneous branch which runs along the lateral border of the foot
Explanation: The femoral nerve supplies iliacus in the abdomen/pelvis. Psoas is supplied directly by L1-3 nerve roots (not the femoral nerve), obturator externus is supplied by the obturator nerve, and the femoral nerve does NOT lie within the femoral sheath.
Q127. Rectus femoris muscle:
Answer: Occupies an intermediate plane in the quadriceps muscle mass
Explanation: Rectus femoris has two heads of origin: straight head (from anterior inferior iliac spine) and reflected head (from ilium above acetabulum). It's the most superficial quadriceps muscle, and is supplied by the femoral nerve (not ilioinguinal).
Q128. The deep fascia of the thigh:
Answer: Is attached to the inguinal ligament
Explanation: The fascia lata is attached superiorly to the inguinal ligament, iliac crest, sacrum, and coccyx. The great saphenous vein is superficial to it (except at the saphenous opening). Only about 75% of gluteus maximus inserts into the iliotibial tract.
Q129. Biceps femoris muscle:
Answer: Has a common origin with semitendinosus from the ischial tuberosity
Explanation: The long head of biceps femoris and semitendinosus share a common tendinous origin from the ischial tuberosity. The short head arises lateral (not medial) to adductor magnus. The long head is supplied by tibial nerve, short head by common peroneal. The common peroneal nerve runs along the medial border of biceps tendon.
Q130. The pudendal nerve:
Answer: Leaves the pelvis through the lesser sciatic foramen
Explanation: The pudendal nerve (S2-4) provides sensory innervation to the perineum including scrotal/labial skin. It leaves through the GREATER sciatic foramen, hooks around the sacrospinous ligament, and re-enters through the lesser sciatic foramen. It runs in the lateral wall (pudendal canal) not the roof of the ischiorectal fossa.
Q131. The sciatic nerve in the gluteal region:
Answer: Rests directly on ischium
Explanation: The sciatic nerve can rest directly on the ischium when seated, making it vulnerable to compression. It's accompanied by the posterior cutaneous nerve of thigh. It does NOT supply obturator internus (nerve to obturator internus does) or quadratus femoris (nerve to quadratus femoris does).
Q132. Short saphenous vein:
Answer: Perforates the deep fascia in the midcalf
Explanation: The small saphenous vein perforates the deep fascia in the popliteal fossa (not midcalf) to drain into the popliteal vein. It ascends in the midline of the calf (between the two heads of gastrocnemius), posterior and lateral to tendo achilles.
Q133. Pectineus:
Answer: Medial rotator of hip
Explanation: All are correct. Pectineus is a hip flexor and adductor, assists with medial rotation, and has a dual nerve supply—primarily femoral nerve, but frequently receives additional supply from the obturator nerve (anterior division).
Q134. The segmental supply to the posterior cutaneous nerve of the thigh is:
Answer: S3, 4
Explanation: The posterior cutaneous nerve of the thigh (posterior femoral cutaneous nerve) arises from S1, S2, and S3. It provides cutaneous innervation to the posterior thigh and gives perineal branches.
Q135. Long saphenous vein:
Answer: Is deep to the deep fascia for most of its course
Explanation: The superficial circumflex iliac vein is a tributary of the great saphenous vein near its termination. The vein is superficial to deep fascia for most of its course (only pierces it at saphenous opening), and arises from the medial end of the dorsal venous arch of the foot.
Q136. Attached to proximal tibial epiphysis:
Answer: The whole of the medial collateral ligament of the knee
Explanation: The patellar ligament (ligamentum patellae) attaches to the tibial tuberosity on the proximal tibia. Sartorius, gracilis, and semitendinosus form the pes anserinus and attach to the medial tibial shaft (below the epiphyseal line). The medial collateral ligament attaches below the epiphysis.
Q137. Emerging from lesser sciatic foramen:
Answer: Piriformis
Explanation: Obturator internus exits the pelvis through the lesser sciatic foramen after passing through the greater sciatic foramen into the gluteal region. The nerve to obturator internus and the pudendal neurovascular bundle also pass through the lesser sciatic foramen.
Q138. If the common peroneal nerve is divided the following are lost:
Answer: Plantar flexion of toes
Explanation: Common peroneal nerve injury results in foot drop (loss of dorsiflexion) due to paralysis of the anterior compartment. Eversion is also lost (lateral compartment). Plantarflexion and inversion are preserved (posterior compartment - tibial nerve). There is cutaneous sensory loss over dorsum of foot and lateral leg.
Q139. Flexor hallucis longus muscle:
Answer: Is attached to the tibia
Explanation: Flexor hallucis longus arises from the fibula (not tibia), its tendon passes deep to (not superficial to) flexor digitorum longus in the sole, it's a multipennate muscle, and it inserts into the distal (not proximal) phalanx of the great toe.
Q140. Middle cuneiform:
Answer: Articulates with talus
Explanation: The middle (intermediate) cuneiform articulates with the second metatarsal (not third), navicular, and the medial and lateral cuneiforms. It does NOT articulate with the talus. Tibialis anterior inserts into the medial cuneiform and base of first metatarsal. The short plantar ligament attaches to the calcaneus and cuboid.
Q141. Profunda femoris artery:
Answer: First branch from femoral artery
Explanation: The profunda femoris artery arises from the posterolateral aspect of the femoral artery (about 3-4 cm below the inguinal ligament), spirals behind adductor longus, and descends in the posterior thigh. It's the main arterial supply to the thigh (not leg). The femoral artery continues as the popliteal to supply the leg.
Q142. Talus:
Answer: Receives all its blood supply to the body through dorsal aspect of neck
Explanation: The posterior surface of the talus has a groove for the tendon of flexor hallucis longus. The talus receives blood supply from multiple sources (not just through the neck), the spring ligament attaches to the navicular and calcaneus (not talus), and no muscles originate from the talus.
Q143. Gluteus maximus:
Answer: Superficial muscle of buttock characterized by small fibre size
Explanation: Gluteus maximus receives blood supply from both the superior and inferior gluteal arteries. It has large (not small) muscle fibers, about 75% (not 90%) inserts into the iliotibial tract, it has three (not four) bursae beneath it, and it's supplied by the inferior gluteal nerve (while medius is supplied by superior gluteal).
Q144. Piriformis is the key to gluteal region. Which relation is not TRUE?
Answer: In buttock, lower border lies alongside superior gemellus
Explanation: The pudendal nerve and vessels pass SUPERFICIAL to (not deep to) piriformis in the gluteal region before hooking around the sacrospinous ligament. Structures above piriformis: superior gluteal nerve and vessels. Structures below: inferior gluteal vessels, sciatic nerve, posterior femoral cutaneous nerve, pudendal vessels and nerve.
Q145. Of the hip joint ligaments and capsule:
Answer: Capsule attaches circumferentially to neck of femur at anterior trochanteric line
Explanation: The iliofemoral ligament becomes taut in extension and lateral rotation (or medial rotation depending on fiber orientation). The capsule attaches to the intertrochanteric line anteriorly but posteriorly only covers the medial two-thirds of the neck. Psoas separates the capsule from the femoral artery (not nerve).
Q146. Superficial cutaneous nerves supplying the thigh include the following EXCEPT:
Answer: Ilioinguinal nerve
Explanation: While the saphenous nerve does supply skin, it's primarily a nerve of the LEG (medial leg and foot), not the thigh. The other nerves listed all provide cutaneous innervation to thigh skin.
Q147. The flexor compartment of the thigh contains which of the following muscles?
Answer: Gluteus maximus
Explanation: Semimembranosus is in the posterior (flexor/hamstring) compartment of the thigh. Gluteus maximus is in the gluteal region, adductor magnus and gracilis are in the medial compartment, and rectus femoris is in the anterior (extensor) compartment.
Q148. Which of the following is true of the great saphenous vein?
Answer: It passes posterior to the medial malleolus
Explanation: The great saphenous vein pierces the cribriform fascia (thin perforated fascia) in the saphenous opening to join the femoral vein. It passes ANTERIOR to the medial malleolus, runs along the medial (not lateral) border of the tibia, joins the femoral vein from the anteromedial side, and has multiple tributaries.
Q149. Which is not an origin of vastus lateralis?
Answer: Upper half of the intertrochanteric line
Explanation: Vastus lateralis does NOT arise from the aponeurosis of tensor fasciae latae. It arises from the intertrochanteric line, greater trochanter, gluteal tuberosity, lateral lip of linea aspera, lateral supracondylar line, and lateral intermuscular septum.
Q150. Regarding the adductor canal:
Answer: It contains the nerve to vastus intermedius
Explanation: Throughout the adductor canal, the femoral artery lies between the saphenous nerve (lateral/anterior) and the femoral vein (medial/posterior). The canal contains the nerve to vastus medialis (not intermedius). Contents exit through the adductor hiatus in adductor magnus (not by piercing adductor longus).
Q151. At the hip:
Answer: The ligament of the head of the femur is attached to the acetabular notch
Explanation: The anterior division of the obturator nerve gives articular branches to the hip joint capsule (Hilton's law). The ligament of the head attaches to the fovea and acetabular fossa (transverse acetabular ligament spans the notch). Extension (not flexion) tightens the ligaments. Normal hip flexion is approximately 120-130° (not 160°).
Q152. Regarding the cuneiform bones:
Answer: The lateral is the smallest
Explanation: The second metatarsal has a deep mortise articulation with all three cuneiforms, providing stability to the transverse arch. The intermediate cuneiform is the smallest (not lateral). Tibialis anterior inserts into the medial cuneiform and base of first metatarsal. Flexor hallucis brevis arises from the cuboid and lateral cuneiform.
Q153. Regarding the dorsum of the foot:
Answer: Cutaneous innervation is primarily from the sural nerve
Explanation: The dorsalis pedis artery passes to the first intermetatarsal space where it enters the sole to join the lateral plantar artery. Dorsal cutaneous innervation is primarily from superficial peroneal nerve (not sural). Extensor digitorum brevis gives THREE tendons (to toes 2-4); the most medial belly is extensor hallucis brevis. The superficial peroneal nerve divides ABOVE the ankle.
Q154. Regarding the sole of the foot:
Answer: The heel is supplied by lateral calcaneal nerves
Explanation: Flexor digitorum brevis is analogous to flexor digitorum superficialis (inserts into middle phalanges, split for FDL/FHL tendons). The heel is supplied by medial and lateral calcaneal nerves (branches of tibial nerve). Flexor hallucis brevis is in the third layer. The plantar vessels lie between the first and second layers. The LATERAL plantar artery forms the plantar arch with dorsalis pedis.
Q155. At the ankle joint:
Answer: The distal fibula is not part of the joint
Explanation: The ankle joint is supplied by branches from the deep peroneal nerve (from anterior tibial) and tibial nerve posteriorly. The distal fibula IS part of the joint (forms lateral malleolus). The deltoid ligament has four parts (not three). The posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament has a deeper part called the transverse ligament. Peronei cause eversion, not plantarflexion primarily.
Q156. Which is NOT true about fractured neck of femurs?
Answer: The leg is shortened and externally rotated in most fractured neck of femurs
Explanation: This is FALSE. The main blood supply to the femoral head comes from the retinacular arteries (branches of medial and lateral circumflex femoral arteries) that ascend along the femoral neck, NOT from vessels in the cancellous bone from the diaphysis. This is why subcapital fractures cause avascular necrosis.
Q157. Trendelenburg's test is negative if:
Answer: The hip adductors are paralyzed (eg in poliomyelitis)
Explanation: Trendelenburg test assesses hip ABDUCTORS (gluteus medius and minimus), not adductors. A negative test (pelvis remains level or rises on the unsupported side) is NORMAL. A positive test (pelvis drops on unsupported side) indicates weak abductors, hip dislocation, or structural problems. Adductor paralysis would not cause a positive Trendelenburg.
Q158. Which of the following structures can be missing in a completely stable and functional knee?
Answer: ACL
Explanation: The patella can be congenitally absent or surgically removed (patellectomy) with maintenance of knee function, though with some loss of quadriceps mechanical advantage. The cruciate and collateral ligaments are essential for knee stability. The oblique popliteal ligament reinforces the posterior capsule.
Q159. Which statement about femoral hernias is INCORRECT?
Answer: It is commoner in males than females
Explanation: This is INCORRECT. Femoral hernias are MORE common in females than males (due to wider pelvis). All other statements are correct. Femoral hernias are always acquired (not congenital), pass through the femoral canal below and lateral to the pubic tubercle, and the canal contains lymphatics (node of Cloquet).
Q160. In the sole:
Answer: Plantar arteries and nerves lie between second and third layers
Explanation: Abductor digiti minimi is in the first (superficial) layer along with abductor hallucis and flexor digitorum brevis. The plantar vessels and nerves lie between the first and second layers. The myotome is primarily S2, S3. The medial plantar nerve supplies 3½ digits (like median nerve in hand). Peroneus longus and tibialis posterior tendons pass through all layers.
Q161. Which is supplied by the medial plantar nerve?
Answer: Adductor hallucis
Explanation: The medial plantar nerve supplies the first lumbrical (analogous to median nerve supplying lateral two lumbricals in hand). It also supplies abductor hallucis, flexor digitorum brevis, and flexor hallucis brevis. The lateral plantar nerve supplies all other intrinsic foot muscles.
Q162. At the ankle:
Answer: The capsule is attached to the posterior tibiofibular ligament
Explanation: The ankle joint capsule is attached to the margins of the articular surfaces and incorporates the posterior tibiofibular ligament. The deltoid ligament has four parts (not three). The ankle is primarily a hinge joint for dorsiflexion/plantarflexion only (inversion/eversion occur at subtalar and midtarsal joints). Nerve supply is from deep peroneal and tibial nerves (not superficial peroneal).
Q163. The cruciate anastomosis is NOT joined by:
Answer: Transverse branch of the lateral circumflex artery
Explanation: The cruciate anastomosis (around the upper femur) is formed by: transverse branches of medial and lateral circumflex femoral arteries, descending branch of inferior gluteal artery, and ascending branch of first perforating artery. The internal pudendal artery does NOT contribute.
Q164. Stability of the patella in knee extension is maintained primarily by:
Answer: Inferior fibres of vastus lateralis
Explanation: The inferior oblique fibers of vastus medialis (vastus medialis obliquus - VMO) are the primary dynamic stabilizers of the patella, preventing lateral displacement during quadriceps contraction. These fibers insert into the medial patella at approximately 50-55 degrees.
Q165. Regarding the branches of the femoral nerve:
Answer: Does NOT supply cutaneous sensation to skin over the femoral triangle
Explanation: The femoral nerve does NOT supply the skin over the femoral triangle—this area is supplied by the ilioinguinal nerve and femoral branch of the genitofemoral nerve. The femoral cutaneous nerves pierce the fascia lata directly (not via the adductor canal). The saphenous nerve only accompanies the great saphenous vein in the lower leg.
Q166. Profunda femoris artery is separated from the femoral artery by:
Answer: Pectineus
Explanation: As the profunda femoris artery spirals posteriorly and descends, it becomes separated from the femoral artery by adductor longus (which lies between them). The profunda passes behind adductor longus while the femoral artery remains anterior to it.
Q167. Femoral canal contains:
Answer: Femoral nerve
Explanation: The femoral canal (medial compartment of femoral sheath) normally contains: lymph node of Cloquet (Rosenmuller), lymphatic vessels, loose connective tissue, and fat. It does NOT contain the femoral nerve (lies lateral to sheath), artery (in lateral compartment), or vein (in intermediate compartment).
Q168. Regarding the saphenous opening:
Answer: Transmits the contents of the femoral sheath
Explanation: The floor (deep/posterior aspect) of the saphenous opening is formed by the fascia over pectineus and femoral vessels. The opening is in the fascia lata and is covered by cribriform fascia. The great saphenous vein passes superoLATERALLY (not medially) through it. The falciform margin forms the lateral, inferior, and medial borders.
Q169. Piriformis:
Answer: Is an abductor of the hip in hip flexion
Explanation: When the hip is flexed beyond 90 degrees, piriformis changes from a lateral rotator to an abductor (due to change in line of action). It passes through the GREATER (not lesser) sciatic foramen. Gluteal injections should be in the upper outer quadrant (gluteus medius/minimus area) to avoid the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve lies superficial to (on) piriformis.
Q170. Popliteus:
Answer: Attaches to the medial femoral condyle
Explanation: Popliteus lies immediately deep to (anterior to) the popliteal artery in the popliteal fossa. It attaches to the LATERAL femoral condyle (not medial), "UNLOCKS" (not locks) the knee, is supplied by the tibial nerve (not femoral), and attaches to the LATERAL meniscus (not medial).
Q171. The third layer of muscles of the sole of the foot include:
Answer: Four lumbricals and quadratus plantae
Explanation: The third layer contains: flexor hallucis brevis, adductor hallucis (oblique and transverse heads), and flexor digiti minimi brevis. First layer: abductor hallucis, flexor digitorum brevis, abductor digiti minimi. Second layer: quadratus plantae, lumbricals, FDL and FHL tendons. Fourth layer: interossei and peroneus longus/tibialis posterior tendons.
Q172. Peroneus longus inserts into:
Answer: Medial cuneiform and first metatarsal
Explanation: Peroneus longus crosses the sole obliquely to insert into the lateral side of the base of the first metatarsal and medial cuneiform (same insertion as tibialis anterior on opposite side). Peroneus BREVIS inserts into the base of the 5th metatarsal.
Q173. The transverse arch of the foot is formed by:
Answer: Calcaneus, talus, navicular, cuneiforms and first three metatarsals
Explanation: The transverse arch is formed by the navicular, three cuneiforms, cuboid, and bases of all five metatarsals. It's highest at the level of the cuneiforms (especially intermediate cuneiform). The arch is supported by peroneus longus, tibialis posterior, and intrinsic foot muscles.
Q174. Which of the following is TRUE?
Answer: The popliteal fossa is bounded by the biceps medially
Explanation: The popliteal fossa contains the common peroneal nerve (runs along lateral border). Biceps femoris bounds the fossa LATERALLY (not medially—that's semimembranosus/semitendinosus). The great saphenous vein doesn't pass through the popliteal fossa. Gluteus maximus inserts mainly into the iliotibial tract and gluteal tuberosity. The sciatic nerve exits through the GREATER sciatic foramen.
Q175. The femoral triangle:
Answer: The femoral triangle is bounded by the inguinal ligament, medial border of sartorius and lateral border of adductor longus
Explanation: The femoral canal contains the lymph node of Cloquet (Rosenmuller). The femoral triangle boundaries are correct except it's the LATERAL border of adductor longus (medial boundary). The mid-inguinal point is correct. The femoral sheath does NOT contain the femoral nerve (it lies lateral to the sheath). The arteries are separated by adductor longus (not brevis).
Q176. The knee:
Answer: The cruciate ligaments are intra-synovial
Explanation: The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is the primary stabilizer of the flexed, weight-bearing knee, preventing posterior displacement of the tibia on the femur. The cruciates are intracapsular but EXTRAsynovial (covered by synovial membrane). The medial meniscus attaches ANTERIOR to (not behind) the PCL. Normal synovial fluid volume is <3.5ml. No active rotation occurs in the fully extended knee.
Q177. Which one of the following muscles has a double nerve supply?
Answer: Rectus femoris
Explanation: Pectineus has a dual nerve supply: primarily from the femoral nerve, but frequently receives additional innervation from the accessory obturator nerve (when present) or the obturator nerve proper. This reflects its transitional position between anterior and medial compartments.
Q178. Inversion and eversion of the foot take place MAINLY at the:
Answer: Ankle joint
Explanation: Inversion and eversion occur primarily at the subtalar (talocalcaneal) joint and the talocalcaneonavicular joint. The ankle joint is primarily for dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. The transverse tarsal joint (talonavicular and calcaneocuboid) also contributes to inversion/eversion.
Q179. Which one of the following has a tendon that is intracapsular?
Answer: Plantaris
Explanation: The tendon of popliteus is intracapsular (within the fibrous capsule of the knee joint) as it passes through the joint to attach to the lateral femoral condyle. The tendon of the long head of biceps brachii is intracapsular at the shoulder, but none of the other options listed have intracapsular tendons.
Q180. The deltoid ligament belongs to the:
Answer: Ankle joint
Explanation: The deltoid (medial) ligament is the strong medial ligament of the ankle joint. It has four parts: tibionavicular, tibiocalcaneal, anterior tibiotalar, and posterior tibiotalar. It attaches from the medial malleolus to the talus, calcaneus, and navicular, providing medial ankle stability.