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Question 1
Correct
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The pterygoid plexus receives tributaries from which of the following veins?
Your Answer: Maxillary vein
Explanation:The pterygoid plexus of veins is the main venous component associated with the infratemporal fossa. It receives tributaries corresponding to the branches of the internal maxillary artery. This plexus communicates freely with the anterior facial vein; it also communicates with the cavernous sinus, by branches through the foramen of Vesalius, foramen ovale and foramen lacerum. The (internal) maxillary vein is a short trunk which accompanies the first part of the (internal) maxillary artery. It is formed by a confluence of the veins of the pterygoid plexus and passes backward between the sphenomandibular ligament and the neck of the mandible and unites with the temporal vein to form the posterior facial vein. It carries blood away from the infratemporal fossa.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 2
Correct
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The third branch of the maxillary artery lies in which fossa?
Your Answer: Pterygopalatine fossa
Explanation:The maxillary artery supplies deep structures of the face. It branches from the external carotid artery just deep to the neck of the mandible. It is divided into three portions:- The first or mandibular portion (or bony portion) passes horizontally forward, between the neck of the mandible and the sphenomandibular ligament. – The second or pterygoid portion (or muscular portion) runs obliquely forward and upward under cover of the ramus of the mandible, on the surface of the lateral pterygoid muscle; it then passes between the two heads of origin of this muscle and enters the fossa. – The third portion lies in the pterygopalatine fossa in relation to the pterygopalatine ganglion. This is considered the terminal branch of the maxillary artery. Branches from the third portion includes: the sphenopalatine artery, descending palatine artery, infraorbital artery, posterior superior alveolar artery, artery of pterygoid canal, pharyngeal artery, middle superior alveolar artery and anterior superior alveolar artery.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 3
Correct
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A 3 year old girl is taken to the clinic with a 3 day history of feeling unwell and having a sore throat. When examined by the doctor, marked cervical lymphadenopathy is observed and the oropharynx is covered with a thick grey membrane which bleeds following attempted removal. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer: Diphtheria
Explanation:Diphtheria is an infection caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Signs and symptoms may vary from mild to severe. They usually start two to five days after exposure. Symptoms often come on fairly gradually, beginning with a sore throat and fever. In severe cases, a grey or white patch develops in the throat. This can block the airway and create a barking cough as in croup. The neck may swell in part due to enlarged lymph nodes.The disease may remain manageable, but in more severe cases, lymph nodes in the neck may swell, and breathing and swallowing are more difficult. People in this stage should seek immediate medical attention, as obstruction in the throat may require intubation or a tracheotomy. Abnormal cardiac rhythms can occur early in the course of the illness or weeks later, and can lead to heart failure. Diphtheria can also cause paralysis in the eye, neck, throat, or respiratory muscles. Patients with severe cases are put in a hospital intensive care unit and given a diphtheria antitoxin (consisting of antibodies isolated from the serum of horses that have been challenged with diphtheria toxin). Since antitoxin does not neutralize toxin that is already bound to tissues, delaying its administration increases risk of death. Therefore, the decision to administer diphtheria antitoxin is based on clinical diagnosis, and should not await laboratory confirmation.Antibiotics are used in patients or carriers to eradicate C. diphtheriae and prevent its transmission to others. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention recommends either:MetronidazoleErythromycin is given (orally or by injection) for 14 days (40 mg/kg per day with a maximum of 2 g/d), orProcaine penicillin G is given intramuscularly for 14 days (300,000 U/d for patients weighing 10 kg); patients with allergies to penicillin G or erythromycin can use Rifampicin or clindamycin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Head & Neck
- Pathology
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Question 4
Correct
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A 41-year-old man, with symptomatic tracheal compression is scheduled for a thyroidectomy. He has previous personal history of hyperthyroidism, controlled by a carbimazole prescription. He has previously presented to the emergency department with dyspnoea and stridor, for which the surgery is indicated. Prior to his thyroidectomy, excessive bleeding is controlled for by ligation of the superior thyroid artery. The superior thyroid artery branches into the superior laryngeal artery which is closely related to a structure which upon injury will cause loss of sensation in the laryngeal mucosa. What is the name of this structure?
Your Answer: Internal laryngeal nerve
Explanation:The internal laryngeal nerve provides sensory innervation to the laryngeal mucosa, and injury to it will cause loss of sensation. The internal laryngeal nerve lies inferior to the piriform recess mucous membrane, placing it at high risk of irritation or damage by objects which become lodged in the recess. The internal laryngeal artery branches off the superior laryngeal artery accompanied by the superior laryngeal nerve, inferior to the thyroid artery which branches off the superior thyroid artery close to its bifurcation from the external carotid artery.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 5
Correct
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Elevation of the eyeball is primarily produced by which of the following muscles:
Your Answer: Superior rectus and inferior oblique
Explanation:Elevation of the eyeball is produced by the superior rectus and the inferior oblique muscles.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 6
Correct
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A 50 year old female patient with an history of chronic headache was scheduled for CT scan. If the CT scan revealed a tumour at the horn of the lateral ventricle, which of the following structures is most likely to be compressed by this tumour?
Your Answer: Fibres of the corpus callosum
Explanation:The ventricular system of the brain is made up of four ventricles namely; two lateral and a third and forth ventricle. The ventricles are the site of the development of the cerebrospinal fluid. The left and right lateral ventricles are located in each of the brain’s hemispheres. The roof of the lateral ventricles are made up of the fibres of the corpus callosum. This is the structure that would be compressed by the a tumour on the roof of the lateral ventricles.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 7
Correct
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An 8 year old boy presents with bleeding from the nose. From which area did the bleeding most likely originate?
Your Answer: Kiesselbach's plexus
Explanation:Answer: Kiesselbach’s plexusEpistaxis is defined as acute haemorrhage from the nostril, nasal cavity, or nasopharynx. The source of 90% of anterior nosebleeds within the Kiesselbach’s plexus (also known as Little’s area) on the anterior nasal septum. Kiesselbach’s plexus (Kiesselbach’s area or Little’s area) is a vascular region of the anteroinferior nasal septum that comprises four arterial anastomoses:1)anterior ethmoidal artery – a branch of the ophthalmic artery2)sphenopalatine artery
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Head & Neck
- Pathology
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Question 8
Correct
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Which of the following foramina provides a passage through which the vestibulocochlear nerve, passes?
Your Answer: Internal acoustic meatus
Explanation:The internal auditory meatus is a canal within the petrous part of the temporal bone of the skull between the posterior cranial fossa and the inner ear. It provides a passage through which the vestibulocochlear nerve, the facial nerve, and the labyrinthine artery (an internal auditory branch of the basilar artery) can pass from inside the skull to structures of the inner ear and face.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 9
Correct
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A suspicious growth on the posterior tongue of a 40-year-old man was discovered by his dentist and was immediately referred for possible oral cancer. The lymph from the posterior tongue will drain to which of the following nodes?
Your Answer: Deep cervical nodes
Explanation:Lymph from the medial anterior two thirds of the tongue travels to the deep cervical lymph nodes. Lymph from the lateral anterior tongue goes to the submandibular nodes.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 10
Correct
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A young 16 year old boy presented to the ENT clinic with a history of sore throat for the past 1 day. On examination there was a pharyngeal purulent discharge. Which of the following types of inflammation is seen in this boy?
Your Answer: Acute inflammation
Explanation:A 1 day history suggests the purulent discharge is due to acute inflammation. Acute inflammation has 3 features: 1) the affected area is occupied by a purulent discharge composed of proteins, fluids and cells from local blood vessels2) the infective agent i.e. bacteria is present in the affected area 3) the damaged tissue can be liquified and the debris removed from the site. If the inflammation lasts over weeks or months, then it is termed as chronic inflammation. Granulomatous inflammation is characterised by the presence and formation of granulomas. Exudate is not a feature of resolution or a complication of inflammation. Abscess formation takes more than 1 day to form and is usually within a capsule/cavity.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Head & Neck
- Pathology
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Question 11
Incorrect
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Functions of the glossopharyngeal nerve include the following except:
Your Answer: Transmission of sensory input from posterior 1/3 of the tongue
Correct Answer: Proprioceptive input from muscles of the tongue and larynx
Explanation:The glossopharyngeal nerve is a mixed nerve consisting of both sensory and motor fibers. It has several branches and five distinct general functions:Branchial motor- Special visceral efferent- supplies the Stylopharyngeus muscle and superior constrictor muscle.Visceral motor- general visceral efferent- provides parasympathetic innervation of the parotid gland.Visceral sensory- general visceral afferent- carries visceral sensory information from the carotid sinus and carotid body.General sensory- general somatic afferent- provides general sensory information from the inner surface of the tympanic membrane, upper pharynx and posterior one third of the tongue.Visceral afferent- special visceral afferent- provides taste sensation from the posterior one third of the tongue including the circumvallate papillae.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 12
Correct
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A 50-year-old female is undergoing a lymph node biopsy from the posterior triangle of his neck. What structure forms the posterior boundary of the posterior triangle of the neck?
Your Answer: Trapezius muscle
Explanation:The sternocleidomastoid muscle divides the neck into anterior and posterior triangles on both sides of the neck. The posterior triangle has the following boundaries: anteriorly – sternocleidomastoid muscle posteriorly – trapezius roof – investing layer of deep cervical fascia floor – prevertebral fascia overlying splenius capitis, levator scapulae, and the scalene muscles The contents of the posterior triangle are: 1. fat 2. lymph nodes (level V) 3. accessory nerve 4. cutaneous branches of the cervical plexus – greater auricular nerve, transverse cervical nerve, lesser occipital nerve, supraclavicular nerve (A major branch of this plexus is the phrenic nerve, which arises from the anterior divisions of spinal nerves C3-C5) 5. inferior belly of omohyoid 6. branches of the thyrocervical trunk (transverse cervical and suprascapular arteries) 7. third part of the subclavian artery 8. external jugular vein
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 13
Correct
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The tympanic membrane is a thin semi-transparent membrane that separates the tympanic cavity from the bottom of the external acoustic meatus. The interior of the tympanic membrane is innervated by which of the following cranial nerves?
Your Answer: Glossopharyngeal
Explanation:The glossopharyngeal nerve, known as the ninth cranial nerve (CN IX), is a mixed nerve that carries afferent sensory and efferent motor information. The glossopharyngeal nerve has five distinct general functions: – The branchial motor (special visceral efferent), supplies the stylopharyngeus muscle.- The visceral motor (general visceral efferent), provides parasympathetic innervation of the parotid gland via the otic ganglion. – The visceral sensory (general visceral afferent), carries visceral sensory information from the carotid sinus and carotid body. – The general sensory (general somatic afferent), provides general sensory information from the inner surface of the tympanic membrane, upper pharynx (GVA), and the posterior one-third of the tongue.- The visceral afferent (special visceral afferent), provides taste sensation from the posterior one-third of the tongue, including the circumvallate papillae.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 14
Correct
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What is the innervation of the laryngeal mucosa inferior to the true vocal cord?
Your Answer: Recurrent laryngeal nerve
Explanation:Motor innervation to all other muscles of the larynx and sensory innervation to the subglottis is by the recurrent laryngeal nerve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 15
Correct
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A patient suffers a stab wound to the neck. The entry point of the blade is situated within the posterior triangle of the neck. Which of the following muscles is most likely to be involved? Select ONE answer only.
Your Answer: Anterior scalene
Explanation:The anterior triangle is the triangular area of the neck found anteriorly to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It is formed by the anterior border of sternocleidomastoid laterally, the median line of the neck medially and by the inferior border of the mandible superiorly. The apex of the anterior triangle extends towards the manubrium sterni. The anterior triangle contains: Muscles: thyrohyoid, sternothyroid, sternohyoid muscles Organs: thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, larynx, trachea, esophagus, submandibular gland, caudal part of the parotid gland Arteries: superior and inferior thyroid, common carotid, external carotid, internal carotid artery (and sinus), facial, submental, lingual arteries Veins: anterior jugular veins, internal jugular, common facial, lingual, superior thyroid, middle thyroid veins, facial vein, submental vein, lingual veins Nerves: vagus nerve (CN X), hypoglossal nerve (CN XII), part of sympathetic trunk, mylohyoid nerve The posterior triangle is a triangular area found posteriorly to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It has three borders; anterior, posterior and inferior borders. The anterior border is the posterior margin of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The posterior border is the anterior margin of the trapezius muscle, while the inferior border is the middle one-third of the clavicle. The investing layer of deep cervical fascia and integument forms the roof of the space, while the floor is covered with the prevertebral fascia along with levator scapulae, splenius capitis and the scalene muscles. The inferior belly of omohyoid subdivides the posterior triangle into a small supraclavicular, and a large occipital, triangle. Contents: Vessels: the third part of the subclavian artery, suprascapular and transverse cervical branches of the thyrocervical trunk, external jugular vein, lymph nodes Nerves: accessory nerve (CN XI), the trunks of the brachial plexus, fibers of the cervical plexus Of the muscles listed in the options, only the anterior scalene is situated within the posterior triangle of the neck.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 16
Correct
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Where does Stensens duct primarily open?
Your Answer: Opposite the second molar tooth
Explanation:The parotid duct (Stensen’s duct), which provides an exit for the gland’s secretions, passes through the anterior edge of the gland in the superficial lobe, turns medially at the anterior border of the masseter, penetrates the buccinator, then enters the oral cavity lateral to the second maxillary molar.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 17
Correct
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A 30 year-old male patient sustained a sharp blow to the right side of the head, over the temporal region during a vehicular accident. This resulted to the rupture of the principal artery that supplies the meninges. Which artery is affected?
Your Answer: Middle meningeal artery
Explanation:The middle meningeal artery is typically the third branch of the first part of the maxillary artery, one of the two terminal branches of the external carotid artery. After branching off the maxillary artery in the infratemporal fossa, it runs through the foramen spinosum to supply the dura mater and the calvaria. The middle meningeal artery is the largest of the three (paired) arteries that supply the meninges, the others being the anterior meningeal artery and the posterior meningeal artery. The anterior branch of the middle meningeal artery runs beneath the pterion. It is vulnerable to injury at this point, where the skull is thin. Rupture of the artery may give rise to an epidural hematoma. An injured middle meningeal artery is the most common cause of an epidural hematoma.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 18
Correct
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A 23-year-old student presents with a fever and sore throat. Upon physical examination, it was observed that he had bilaterally enlarged tonsils that are covered in large amounts of exudate. A diagnosis of tonsillitis was made. The lymph from the tonsils will drain to which of the following nodes?
Your Answer: Deep cervical lymph nodes
Explanation:The tonsils are collections of lymphatic tissue located within the pharynx. They collectively form a ringed arrangement, known as Waldeyer’s ring: pharyngeal tonsil, 2 tubal tonsils, 2 palatine tonsils, and the lingual tonsil. Lymphatic fluid from the lingual tonsil drains into the jugulodigastric and deep cervical lymph nodes. Lymphatic fluid from the pharyngeal tonsil drains into the retropharyngeal nodes (which empty into the deep cervical chain), and directly into deep cervical nodes within the parapharyngeal space. The retropharyngeal and the deep cervical lymph nodes drain the tubal tonsils. The palatine tonsils drain to the jugulodigastric node, a node of the deep cervical lymph nodes, located inferior to the angle of the mandible.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 19
Incorrect
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A 39-year-old guy comes to the emergency room with a persistent nasal bleed. You suspect the bleeding is coming from Little's area based on your examination. Which of the blood vessels listed below is most likely to be involved:
Your Answer: Posterior superior alveolar and anterior ethmoidal arteries
Correct Answer: Sphenopalatine and superior labial arteries
Explanation:The Kiesselbach plexus is a vascular network formed by five arteries that supply oxygenated blood to the nasal septum, which refers to the wall separating the right and left sides of the nose. The five arteries that form the Kiesselbach plexus: the sphenopalatine artery, which branches from the maxillary artery originating behind the jawbone; the anterior ethmoidal artery, which branches from the ophthalmic artery behind the eye; the posterior ethmoidal artery, which also branches from the ophthalmic artery; the septal branch of the superior labial artery, which is a branch of the facial artery supplying blood to all of the superficial features of the face; and finally, the greater palatine artery, which is a terminal branch of the maxillary artery.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 20
Correct
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The left lateral pterygoid muscle is one of the muscles of mastication. When acting alone, it will shift the mandible towards which direction?
Your Answer: Laterally, to the right
Explanation:The lateral pterygoid or external pterygoid is a muscle of mastication with two heads. It lies superiorly to the medial pterygoid. When acting alone, it will shift the mandible laterally and to the right.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 21
Correct
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In a neurological exam on a robbery with violence victim, it was discovered that the victim had lost sense of touch to the skin over her cheek and chin (maxilla and mandible region). Where are the cell bodies of the nerve that is responsible for touch sensations of this region located?
Your Answer: Cranial nerve V ganglion
Explanation:The skin over the cheek and the maxilla are innervated by the trigeminal nerve (CN V). The trigeminal nerve has three major branches and it is the largest cranial nerve. The three branches of the trigeminal nerve are; the ophthalmic nerve, the maxillary nerve and the mandibular nerve. The trigeminal nerves ganglion is a sensory nerve ganglion know as the trigeminal ganglion (also referred to as the Gasser’s ganglion or the semilunar ganglion). It is contained in the dura matter in a cavity known as the Meckel’s cave, which covers the trigeminal impression near the apex of the petrous part of the temporal bone.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 22
Incorrect
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During thymectomy the surgeon accidentally nicks a vein that lies just posterior to the thymus. Which of the following vessels is likely to be injured?
Your Answer: Right pulmonary artery
Correct Answer: Left brachiocephalic vein
Explanation:The thymus is located superficially in the anterior mediastinum. The left brachiocephalic vein courses through the mediastinum to join the right brachiocephalic vein and form the superior vena cava on the right side of the thorax. The left brachiocephalic vein, being superficial, courses just deep to the thymus so that it may be susceptible to compression by an adjacent tumour. The left pulmonary vein, left bronchial vein and right pulmonary artery are deep, and enter and exit the lung at its root, thus are not near the thymus. The right superior intercostal vein drains the 2nd to the 4th intercostal spaces and drains into the arch of the azygos vein. It is not, therefore, closely related with the thymus.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 23
Correct
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What is the innervation of the tensor tympani muscle?
Your Answer: Trigeminal nerve
Explanation:The tensor veli palatini is innervated by the medial pterygoid nerve, a branch of mandibular nerve, the third branch of the trigeminal nerve (CN V3) – the only muscle of the palate not innervated by the pharyngeal plexus, which is formed by the vagal and glossopharyngeal nerves.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 24
Correct
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A man suffers damage to his vagus nerve during surgery on his neck. The vagus nerve is cut near its exit from the skull. The man loses his parasympathetic tone raising his heart rate and blood pressure. What other feature will be likely present with a vagus nerve injury?
Your Answer: Hoarse voice
Explanation:The vagus nerve is a mixed nerve with both autonomic and somatic effects. Its most important somatic effect is the motor supply to the larynx via recurrent laryngeal nerves. If one vagus nerve is damaged, the result will be the same as damage to a single recurrent laryngeal nerve, leading to hoarseness of voice. The vagus exits the skull via the jugular foramen, accompanied by the accessory nerve. Anal tone, erections, and urination are all controlled by the sacral parasympathetic and would not be affected by the loss of the vagus. Parasympathetic controlled pupillary constriction is via the oculomotor nerve and would not be affected by the loss of the vagus.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 25
Correct
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A 15-year-old girl presents to the clinic with a 1-week history of headaches, nasal congestion, and facial pain which becomes worse upon leaning forward. Assuming that she's suffering from sinusitis, which sinus is most commonly the site of infection?
Your Answer: Maxillary
Explanation:Based on the clinical scenario, the most probable diagnosis for this patient is maxillary sinusitis.The maxillary sinus drains from its superior aspect, leaving it prone to infections. It is the most commonly affected sinus in sinusitis.Common symptoms of maxillary sinusitis include postnasal discharge, pain, headache and toothache.Radiological imaging may show a fluid level in the antrum.Common organisms causing maxillary sinusitis include Haemophilus influenzae or Streptococcus pneumoniae.Treatment with antral lavage may facilitate diagnosis and relieve symptoms. Antimicrobial therapy has to be continued for long periods. Antrostomy may be needed.Other options:- Frontal sinusitis more commonly causes intracranial complications, but it is still less frequent than maxillary sinusitis.- The petrosal sinus is not a cavity within bone; rather, it is a venous structure located beneath the brain.- Frontoethmoidal sinusitis: It usually presents with frontal headache, nasal obstruction and altered sense of smell. Inflammation may progress to involve periorbital tissues. Ocular symptoms may occur, and secondary CNS involvement brought about by infection entering via emissary veins. CT scanning is the imaging modality of choice. Early cases may be managed with antibiotics. More severe cases usually require surgical drainage.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 26
Incorrect
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A 33 year old woman complains of a persistent offensive discharge from the left ear. On examination, the hearing of left ear is found to be reduced to 40 decibels compared to the right side. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this presentation?
Your Answer: Long standing perforation of the pars tensa
Correct Answer: Cholesteatoma
Explanation:Cholesteatoma is a special form of chronic otitis media in which keratinizing squamous epithelium grows from the tympanic membrane or the auditory canal into the middle ear mucosa or mastoid. The presence of abnormal epithelium in an abnormal location triggers an inflammatory response that can destroy surrounding structures such as the ossicles. Cholesteatomas may be congenital or acquired later in life. Acquired cholesteatomas are usually associated with chronic middle ear infection. Cardinal symptoms are painless otorrhea and progressive hearing loss. Important diagnostic procedures include mastoid process x-rays, temporal bone CT scans, and audiometric tests. Left untreated, erosion of the surrounding bone by a cholesteatoma can lead to facial nerve palsy, extradural abscess, and/or sigmoid sinus thrombosis. Therefore, even if a cholesteatoma is asymptomatic, surgery is always indicated. Surgical treatment involves tympanomastoidectomy to excise the cholesteatoma, followed by repair of the damaged middle ear structures.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Head & Neck
- Pathology
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Question 27
Correct
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Post thyroidectomy, a 50-year-old male singer noticed some hoarseness in his voice. Now, he presents to his general physician as it has been the same for the past few weeks. A complication is noted in the post-thyroidectomy report regarding an injury to the external laryngeal nerve. Which muscle has been affected due to loss of innervation by the damaged nerve, and whose improper functioning can lead to hoarseness in the patient's voice?
Your Answer: Cricothyroid
Explanation:All of the muscles of the larynx are innervated by the recurrent laryngeal nerve, except the cricothyroid muscle. Cricothyroid muscle is located deep in the anterior neck, between the cricoid and thyroid cartilage and is innervated by the external laryngeal nerve. Any injury to this muscle can cause paralysis and lead to hoarseness. When cricothyroid muscle contracts, it leads to tightening, stretching and thinning of the vocal folds. This produces higher-pitched sounds during vocalization. A patient experiencing hoarseness due to possible injury to the external laryngeal nerve should be reassured that the hoarseness will resolve in time due to increased compensation from the other muscles.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 28
Correct
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The occipital artery is accompanied by which nerve as it arises from the external carotid artery?
Your Answer: Hypoglossal nerve (CN XII)
Explanation:Three main types of variations in the relations of the occipital artery and the hypoglossal nerve are found according to the level at which the nerve crosses the external carotid artery and the point of origin of the occipital artery. In Type I, the hypoglossal nerve crosses the external carotid artery inferior to the origin of the occipital artery; in Type II, the nerve crosses the external carotid artery at the level of origin of the occipital artery; and in Type III, it crosses superior to that level. In Type III the occipital artery makes a loop around the hypoglossal nerve and is in a position to pull and exert pressure on the nerve. This possibility should be taken into consideration in the diagnosis of peripheral paresis or paralysis of the tongue and during surgery in this area.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 29
Correct
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Regarding the anatomical relations of the scalenus muscles, which of these is true?
Your Answer: The trunks of the brachial plexus emerge from the lateral border of scalenus anterior
Explanation:The ascending cervical artery lies media the phrenic nerve on scalenus anterior and can easily be mistaken for the phrenic nerve at operation.The phrenic nerve passes across scalenus anterior and medius inferiorly.The subclavian artery is separated from the vein by the scalenus anterior.The brachiocephalic vein is formed at the medial border of scalenus anterior by the subclavian vein and the internal jugular vein.Emerging from the lateral border of scalenus anterior are the trunks of the brachial plexus .
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 30
Incorrect
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What intrinsic muscle of the larynx is responsible for the tensing of the vocal cords?
Your Answer: Thyroarytenoid
Correct Answer: Cricothyroid muscle
Explanation:The cricothyroid muscle is the only tensor muscle of the larynx aiding with phonation. It attaches to the anterolateral aspect of the cricoid and the inferior cornu and lower lamina of the thyroid cartilage. Its action tilts the thyroid forward to help tense the vocal cords.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 31
Correct
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A 42 - year old male patient with an acute onset headache was brought in to the emergency department with suspicion of a subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH). The SHO on call decided to have a diagnostic lumbar puncture after computed topography scan failed to support the suspicion. To perform a successful lumbar puncture without causing injury to the spine, which anatomical landmark should guide the SHO to locate the fourth vertebra for insertion of the spinal needle?
Your Answer: Iliac crest
Explanation:The safest spinal level for conducting a lumbar puncture, is at the level of the fourth lumbar vertebra. The anatomical landmark used to locate the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4), is the iliac crest. The needle can safely be inserted either above or below L4. The conus medullaris is at the level of the border of L1 and L2 so L4 is safely distant from it.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 32
Correct
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The thyrocervical trunk branches into which artery that passes upward and in front of the vertebral artery and longus colli muscle:
Your Answer: Inferior thyroid
Explanation:The inferior thyroid artery is an artery in the neck. It arises from the thyrocervical trunk and passes upward, in front of the vertebral artery and longus colli muscle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 33
Correct
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A 50 year-old man, who sustained a head injury experienced sudden onset of horizontal double vision. He is diagnosed with lateral rectus palsy. Which of the following nerves is affected in this condition?
Your Answer: Abducent
Explanation:The lateral rectus muscle is one of the 6 extra-ocular muscles that control eye movements. It is responsible for abduction and is the only muscle that is innervated by the abducens nerve (CN VI).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 34
Correct
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A 5 year old boy is taken to the doctor by his father. He has had an earache for the past day and he is constantly pulling and touching his ear. His father noticed a foul smelling discharge leaking from his ear after which the earache resolved. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
Your Answer: Acute otitis media
Explanation:Acute otitis media (AOM) is a painful type of ear infection. It occurs when the area behind the eardrum, the middle ear, becomes inflamed and infected.The following behaviours in children often mean they have AOM:- fits of fussiness and intense crying (in infants)- clutching the ear while wincing in pain (in toddlers)- complaining about a pain in the ear (in older children).Perforation of the tympanic membrane is not unusual as the process advances, most frequently in posterior or inferior quadrants. Before or instead of a single perforation, an opaque serum like exudate is sometimes seen oozing through the entire tympanic membrane.With perforation and in the absence of a coexistent viral infection, the patient generally experiences rapid relief of pain and fever. The discharge initially is purulent, though it may be thin and watery or bloody; pulsation of the otorrhea is common. Otorrhea from acute perforation normally lasts 1-2 days before spontaneous healing occurs. Otorrhea may persist if the perforation is accompanied by mucosal swelling or polypoid changes, which can act as a ball valve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Head & Neck
- Pathology
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Question 35
Correct
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Which of the following body location is the appropriate site to apply pressure when performing a carotid sinus massage?
Your Answer: Thyroid cartilage
Explanation:The common carotid artery runs through the neck and divides into internal and external carotid arteries on both sides near the upper thyroid cartilage. In emergency situations, carotid sinus massage is also used to diagnose or treat paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia. During the procedure, to maximize access to the carotid artery, the patient is put in a supine position with the neck extended (i.e. elevating the chin away from the chest). The carotid sinus is normally positioned inferior to the angle of the jaw, near the arterial impulse, at the level of the thyroid cartilage. For 5 to 10 seconds, pressure is administered to one carotid sinus. Although pulsatile pressure applied in a vigorous circular motion may be more effective, continuous pressure is preferred since it is more reproducible. If the predicted reaction is not obtained, the operation is repeated on the opposite side after a one- to two-minute wait.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 36
Correct
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The tensor villi palatini muscle is a broad thin, ribbon-like muscle in the head that tenses the soft palate. Which of the following structures is associated with the tensor villi palatini muscle?
Your Answer: The hamulus of the medial pterygoid plate
Explanation:The pterygoid hamulus is a hook-like process at the lower extremity of the medial pterygoid plate of the sphenoid bone around which the tendon of the tensor veli palatini passes.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 37
Correct
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A 50-year-old male is planned for elective parotidectomy for pleomorphic adenoma. The surgeon intends to use a nerve integrity monitor thus avoiding neuromuscular blockade. Which of the following nerves is liable to injury in parotidectomy?
Your Answer: Facial nerve
Explanation:Parotidectomy is basically an anatomical dissection. Identification of the facial nerve trunk is essential during parotid gland surgery because facial nerve injury is the most daunting potential complication of parotid gland surgery owing to the close relation between the gland and the extratemporal course of the facial nerve. After exiting the stylomastoid foramen, the facial nerve enters the substance of the parotid gland and then gives off five terminal branches: From superior to inferior, these are the: – Temporal branch supplying the extrinsic ear muscles, occipitofrontalis and orbicularis oculi – Zygomatic branch supplying orbicularis oculi – Buccal branch supplying buccinator and the lip muscles – Mandibular branch supplying the muscles of the lower lip and chin – Cervical branch supplying platysma. There are two approaches to identify the facial nerve trunk during parotidectomy—conventional antegrade dissection of the facial nerve, and retrograde dissection. Numerous soft tissue and bony landmarks have been proposed to assist the surgeon in the early identification of this nerve. Most commonly used anatomical landmarks to identify facial nerve trunk are stylomastoid foramen, tympanomastoid suture (TMS), posterior belly of digastric (PBD), tragal pointer (TP), mastoid process and peripheral branches of the facial nerve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 38
Incorrect
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With regards to the internal carotid artery, which of these statements is correct.
Your Answer: Lies in the roof of the middle ear
Correct Answer: Enters the skull and divides into the anterior and middle cerebral arteries
Explanation:The internal carotid artery passes through the carotid canal in the petrous part of the temporal bone into the cranial cavity. It does NOT groove the sphenoid bone. The internal carotid artery gives off no branches in the neck and is a terminal branch of the common carotid artery. These structures pass between the external and internal carotid arteries: the styloglossus and stylopharyngeus muscles, the glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX), and the pharyngeal branch of the vagus. Accompanied by its sympathetic plexus, the internal carotid artery, passes through the cavernous sinus and is crossed by the abducent nerve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 39
Correct
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Lateral medullary syndrome, also known as Wallenberg's syndrome is a neurological condition caused by ischaemia in the lateral part of the medulla oblongata and is commonly associated with numerous neurological symptoms. Which of the following arteries when occluded leads to this condition?
Your Answer: Posterior inferior cerebellar
Explanation:The lateral medullary syndrome or Wallenberg’s disease is also known as posterior inferior cerebellar artery syndrome (PICA). This syndrome is a clinical manifestation of the occlusion of the posterior cerebellar artery that results in symptoms of infarction of the lateral medullary oblongata. Other arteries that contribute to blood flow in to this region such are the vertebral artery, superior middle cerebellar and inferior medullary arteries can also result to this syndrome when occluded.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 40
Correct
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Question 41
Incorrect
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Which of the following nerves provides sensory innervation to the anteromedial and anterosuperior aspects of the external ear?
Your Answer: Great auricular nerve
Correct Answer: Auriculotemporal nerve
Explanation:Sensory innervation to the external ear is supplied by both cranial and spinal nerves. Branches of the trigeminal, facial, and vagus nerves (CN V, VII, X) are the cranial nerve components, while the lesser occipital (C2, C3) and greater auricular (C2, C3) nerves are the spinal nerve components involved. The lateral surface of the tympanic membrane, the external auditory canal, and the external acoustic meatus are all innervated by nervus intermedius (a branch of CN VII), the auriculotemporal nerve (CN V3), and the auricular branch of the vagus nerve. The concha receives split innervation from nervus intermedius, the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, and the greater auricular (spinal) nerve. Beyond the concha, the anteromedial and anterosuperior parts of the pinna are innervated by the auriculotemporal nerve, and a portion of the lateral helix by the lesser occipital nerve. The greater auricular nerve provides innervation to the area of the pinna inferolateral to the lobule.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 42
Correct
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Which one of the following muscles is innervated by the facial nerve?
Your Answer: Buccinator
Explanation:Buccinator is a muscle of facial expression and is therefore innervated by the facial nerve. The lateral pterygoid, masseter, anterior belly of digastric and temporalis are all muscles of mastication and therefore innervated by the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 43
Correct
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Which of the following statements is true regarding the relation to the liver?
Your Answer: The caudate lobe is superior to the porta hepatis
Explanation:Ligamentum venosum is an anterior relation of the liver: The ligamentum venosum, the fibrous remnant of the ductus venosus of the fetal circulation, lies posterior to the liver. It lies in the fossa for ductus venosus that separates the caudate lobe and the left lobe of the liver. The portal triad contains three important tubes: 1. Proper hepatic artery 2. Hepatic portal vein 3. Bile ductules It also contains lymphatic vessels and a branch of the vagus nerve. The bare area of the liver is a large triangular area that is devoid of any peritoneal covering. The bare area is attached directly to the diaphragm by loose connective tissue. This nonperitoneal area is created by a wide separation between the coronary ligaments. The porta hepatis is a fissure in the inferior surface of the liver. All the neurovascular structures (except the hepatic veins) and hepatic ducts enter or leave the liver via the porta hepatis. It contains the sympathetic branch to the liver and gallbladder and the parasympathetic, hepatic branch of the vagus nerve. The caudate lobe (segment I) lies in the lesser sac on the inferior surface of the liver between the IVC on the right, the ligamentum venosum on the left, and the porta hepatis in front
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 44
Correct
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A 35 year old opera singer undergoes a thyroidectomy and post-operatively, he develops stridor and is unable to speak. What is the best explanation for this symptom?
Your Answer: Bilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve injury
Explanation:This patient has aphonia due to bilateral damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerve. Bilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury is rare for benign thyroid lesions (0.2%). After extubation-stridor, respiratory distress, aphonia occurs due to the closure of the glottic aperture necessitating immediate intervention and emergency intubation or tracheostomy. Intra-operative identification and preservation of the RLN minimizes the risk of injury. The recurrent laryngeal nerves control all intrinsic muscles of the larynx except for the cricothyroid muscle. These muscles act to open, close, and adjust the tension of the vocal cords, and include the posterior cricoarytenoid muscles, the only muscle to open the vocal cords. The nerves supply muscles on the same side of the body, with the exception of the interarytenoid muscle, which is innervated from both sides.The nerves also carry sensory information from the mucous membranes of the larynx below the lower surface of the vocal fold, as well as sensory, secretory and motor fibres to the cervical segments of the oesophagus and the trachea.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Head & Neck
- Pathology
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Question 45
Correct
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A 50-year-old man has complained of persistent hoarseness and dry cough. He has a history of smoking 20 cigarettes per day. The examination reveals no significant clinical signs of cranial nerve damage. Referred to an ENT specialist, the patient is explained how coughing is usually a defence mechanism of the body which is activated more than usual by the chemical irritants in cigarette smoke. However, the ENT doctor suspects a nerve involvement in the cough reflex as the patient also presents with hoarseness with the dry cough. Which nerves is the ENT doctor suspecting to have been affected in this patient?
Your Answer: CN IX and X
Explanation:Cough is an important defensive reflex that helps clear secretions and particulates from the airways. A complex reflex arc generates each cough. The cough reflex begins with irritation of the cough receptors present in the epithelium of the trachea, main carina, branching points of large airways, and more distal smaller airways. These receptors are responsive to both mechanical and chemical stimuli. Afferent pathway: Impulses from stimulated receptors are transmitted via sensory nerve fibres of the vagus nerve (mainly) and glossopharyngeal nerve and travel to the medulla diffusely. CN 5 is also thought to contribute to the afferent limb. However, the vagus is the main nerve. Central pathway: The cough centre is located in the upper brain stem and pons Efferent pathway: Impulses from the centre travel via the vagus, phrenic nerve, and spinal motor nerves to the diaphragm, abdominal wall, and muscles.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 46
Correct
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In relation to the muscles of facial expression, It is true to say:
Your Answer: They are in the same subcutaneous plane as the platysma muscle
Explanation:The facial muscles generally originate from the facial bones and attach to the skin, in the same plane as the platysma muscle. They are all innervated by cranial nerve VII (the facial nerve). The occipitofrontalis muscle consists of two parts: The occipital belly, near the occipital bone, and the frontal belly, near the frontal bone.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 47
Correct
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What vessel is NOT considered a major branch of the descending thoracic aorta?
Your Answer: Inferior thyroid artery
Explanation:The descending thoracic aorta begins at the lower border of T4 near the midline as a continuation of the arch of the aorta. It descends and ends at the level of T12 at the aortic hiatus in the diaphragm, where it becomes the abdominal aorta. The aorta gives off the following branches: (descending order) 1. Bronchial arteries 2. Mediastinal arteries 3. Oesophageal arteries 4. Pericardial arteries 5. Superior phrenic arteries The posterior intercostal arteries are branches that originate throughout the length of the posterior aspect of the descending thoracic aorta. The inferior thyroid artery is usually derived from the thyrocervical trunk, a branch of the subclavian artery.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 48
Correct
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All the following statements are FALSE regarding the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve, except:
Your Answer: The ophthalmic nerve is the smallest branch of the trigeminal nerve
Explanation:The ophthalmic nerve is the smallest of the three trigeminal divisions. The cutaneous branches of the ophthalmic nerve supply the conjunctiva, the skin over the forehead, the upper eyelid, and much of the external surface of the nose.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 49
Incorrect
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A patient suffers a stab wound to the neck. The entry point of the blade is situated within the posterior triangle of the neck. Which of the following muscles is LEAST likely to be involved? Select ONE answer only.
Your Answer: Anterior scalene
Correct Answer: Sternohyoid
Explanation:The anterior triangle is the triangular area of the neck found anteriorly to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It is formed by the anterior border of sternocleidomastoid laterally, the median line of the neck medially and by the inferior border of the mandible superiorly. The apex of the anterior triangle extends towards the manubrium sterni. The anterior triangle contains: Muscles: thyrohyoid, sternothyroid, sternohyoid muscles Organs: thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, larynx, trachea, esophagus, submandibular gland, caudal part of the parotid gland Arteries: superior and inferior thyroid, common carotid, external carotid, internal carotid artery (and sinus), facial, submental, lingual arteries Veins: anterior jugular veins, internal jugular, common facial, lingual, superior thyroid, middle thyroid veins, facial vein, submental vein, lingual veins Nerves: vagus nerve (CN X), hypoglossal nerve (CN XII), part of sympathetic trunk, mylohyoid nerve The posterior triangle is a triangular area found posteriorly to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It has three borders; anterior, posterior and inferior borders. The anterior border is the posterior margin of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The posterior border is the anterior margin of the trapezius muscle, while the inferior border is the middle one-third of the clavicle. The investing layer of deep cervical fascia and integument forms the roof of the space, while the floor is covered with the prevertebral fascia along with levator scapulae, splenius capitis and the scalene muscles. The inferior belly of omohyoid subdivides the posterior triangle into a small supraclavicular, and a large occipital, triangle. Contents: Vessels: the third part of the subclavian artery, suprascapular and transverse cervical branches of the thyrocervical trunk, external jugular vein, lymph nodes Nerves: accessory nerve (CN XI), the trunks of the brachial plexus, fibers of the cervical plexus
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 50
Correct
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The nasolacrimal duct is a membranous canal. It extends from the lower part of the lacrimal sac and drains into which structure?
Your Answer: Inferior meatus
Explanation:The nasolacrimal duct carries tears from the lacrimal sac of the eye into the nasal cavity. The duct begins in the eye socket between the maxillary and lacrimal bones, from where it passes downwards and backwards. The opening of the nasolacrimal duct into the inferior nasal meatus of the nasal cavity is partially covered by a mucosal fold (valve of Hasner or plica lacrimalis). Excess tears flow through the nasolacrimal duct which drains into the inferior nasal meatus.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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SESSION STATS - PERFORMANCE PER SPECIALTY
