Surgical Clinical Reasoning MCQs

Postoperative atelectasis is collapse of alveoli after surgery, promoted by pain, shallow breathing and immobility.

Deep-vein thrombosis prophylaxis is mechanical or pharmacological measures used to reduce perioperative venous thromboembolism.

Intestinal perforation is a full-thickness breach of bowel that may release contents into the peritoneal cavity.

Necrotising soft-tissue infection is a rapidly progressive infection causing fascial and tissue necrosis and requiring urgent surgery.

Thyroidectomy is surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid gland.

Splenectomy is surgical removal of the spleen, increasing long-term risk from encapsulated bacteria.

Small-bowel obstruction is mechanical or functional blockage causing pain, vomiting, distension and reduced passage of stool or flatus.

Acute cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, commonly due to cystic-duct obstruction by a stone.

Inguinal hernia is protrusion of abdominal contents through the inguinal region.

Wound dehiscence is partial or complete separation of a surgical wound after closure.

Surgical site infection is infection involving an incision or operated space after a surgical procedure.

Compartment syndrome is raised pressure within a closed fascial compartment that threatens tissue perfusion.