Which of the following is true about Mallory-Weiss tear -
A 55 year old woman presented with history of recurrent episodes of right upper abdominal pain for the last one year. She presented to emergency with history of jaundice and fever for 2 days. On examination, the patient appeared toxic and had a blood pressure of 100/60 mmHg. She was started on intravenous antibiotics. Ultrasound of the abdomen showed presence of stones in the common bile duct. What would be the best treatment option for her -
A 70 year old male complaining of per rectal bleeding was diagnosed with rectal/anorectal cancer. The distal margin of the tumor was 5 cm from the anal verge. The treatment of choice would be -
Which of the following statements about Hirschsprung disease is incorrect?
Among pathological lead points, the commonest cause of intussusception is -
What is the most important presenting feature of periampullary carcinoma?
What is the best marker to assess prognosis after surgery for colon carcinoma?
All of the following are surgical options in the management of esophageal carcinoma except -
Which of the following statements about heart transplantation is false?
What is the most common cause of lateral aberrant thyroid tissue?
NEET-PG 2015 - Surgery NEET-PG Practice Questions and MCQs
Question 41: Which of the following is true about Mallory-Weiss tear -
- A. It is a mucosal tear not extending through the muscle layer (Correct Answer)
- B. It is more common in women than men
- C. It is common in young individuals
- D. It is associated with achalasia cardia
Explanation: ***It is a mucosal tear not extending through the muscle layer*** - A **Mallory-Weiss tear** is defined as a longitudinal tear in the **mucosa** of the distal esophagus or proximal stomach. - These tears typically do not extend through the **muscularis propria** layer, distinguishing them from a Boerhaave syndrome, which is a full-thickness rupture. *It is more common in women than men* - Mallory-Weiss tears show a **male predominance** with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 2-4:1. - Risk factors like **alcohol use disorder** and forceful vomiting are more common in males, contributing to this gender distribution. *It is common in young individuals* - Mallory-Weiss tears are more common in **middle-aged to older individuals**, typically between 40 and 60 years old. - The condition is rare in young children or teenagers. *It is associated with achalasia cardia* - While both conditions affect the esophagus, there is **no direct causal association** between Mallory-Weiss tears and **achalasia cardia**. - Achalasia is a motility disorder, whereas Mallory-Weiss tears are caused by sudden increases in intra-abdominal pressure.
Question 42: A 55 year old woman presented with history of recurrent episodes of right upper abdominal pain for the last one year. She presented to emergency with history of jaundice and fever for 2 days. On examination, the patient appeared toxic and had a blood pressure of 100/60 mmHg. She was started on intravenous antibiotics. Ultrasound of the abdomen showed presence of stones in the common bile duct. What would be the best treatment option for her -
- A. Open bile duct surgery for stone removal
- B. Lithotripsy for bile duct stones
- C. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal)
- D. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and bile duct stone extraction (Correct Answer)
Explanation: ***Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and bile duct stone extraction*** - The patient presents with **Reynolds' pentad** (Charcot's triad - right upper abdominal pain, jaundice, fever - plus hypotension and toxic appearance/altered mental status), indicating severe acute **cholangitis with septic shock** due to common bile duct stones. - **ERCP with stone extraction** is the most appropriate initial treatment in this unstable patient to achieve rapid biliary decompression and remove the obstruction, which is life-saving in septic cholangitis. - This minimally invasive approach provides urgent drainage while minimizing surgical stress in a critically ill patient. *Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal)* - While cholecystectomy addresses gallbladder stones, it does not directly remove **common bile duct stones** causing the current acute cholangitis. - Performing cholecystectomy alone in an acutely septic patient would not resolve the immediate life-threatening biliary obstruction. - Cholecystectomy can be considered later (interval cholecystectomy) after stabilization and ERCP. *Open bile duct surgery for stone removal* - This is a more invasive procedure with higher morbidity and mortality compared to ERCP for initial management of common bile duct stones, especially in an acutely ill, hemodynamically unstable patient. - **Open surgery** is typically reserved for cases where ERCP fails or is not feasible, or for complex cases requiring biliary reconstruction. *Lithotripsy for bile duct stones* - **Lithotripsy** (fragmenting stones) is not appropriate for initial management of acute cholangitis with sepsis, as it does not provide immediate biliary drainage. - It might be considered as an adjunct for very large or impacted stones during ERCP, but it's not the primary immediate treatment in this emergency setting.
Question 43: A 70 year old male complaining of per rectal bleeding was diagnosed with rectal/anorectal cancer. The distal margin of the tumor was 5 cm from the anal verge. The treatment of choice would be -
- A. Palliative Radiotherapy
- B. Low anterior resection (Correct Answer)
- C. Local Excision
- D. Abdominoperineal resection
Explanation: ***Low anterior resection*** - A tumor located 5 cm from the anal verge is considered a **low rectal tumor**, which is typically amenable to a **low anterior resection** with sphincter preservation. - This procedure aims for complete tumor removal while preserving anal function, which is often achievable when the distal margin allows for a safe distal resection margin (usually 1-2 cm). *Palliative Radiotherapy* - This is typically reserved for patients with advanced, **unresectable disease** or those who are not candidates for surgery due to comorbidities, aiming to alleviate symptoms rather than cure. - The scenario describes a potentially resectable tumor, making curative surgery the preferred initial approach. *Abdominoperineal resection* - This procedure involves the removal of the rectum, anus, and creation of a permanent colostomy, typically reserved for very **low rectal tumors** that are extremely close to or involve the anal sphincter, and cannot safely achieve a negative distal margin with sphincter preservation. - A tumor 5 cm from the anal verge usually allows for a sphincter-sparing procedure like low anterior resection. *Local Excision* - **Local excision (transanal excision)** is suitable for very superficial, small, well-differentiated tumors without lymph node involvement, typically T1N0M0 tumors. - The question does not provide details on tumor depth or nodal status, but a 5 cm tumor usually indicates a need for a more comprehensive resection to ensure oncological clearance.
Question 44: Which of the following statements about Hirschsprung disease is incorrect?
- A. The non-peristaltic affected segment is dilated (Correct Answer)
- B. Absence of ganglion cells in the involved segment
- C. Mainly presents in infancy
- D. Swenson, Duhamel, and Soave are surgical procedures for this condition
Explanation: ***The non-peristaltic affected segment is dilated*** - In Hirschsprung disease, the **aganglionic segment** is typically **constricted** and **narrow**, not dilated, due to continuous contraction without relaxation. - The healthy colon proximal to the affected segment becomes dilated due to the obstruction caused by the constricted, aganglionic segment. *Absence of Ganglion cells in the involved segment* - This statement is **correct**. Hirschsprung disease is fundamentally characterized by the **absence of intramural ganglion cells** (Meissner and Auerbach plexuses) in a segment of the distal colon. - This aganglionosis results in a failure of relaxation and normal peristalsis in the affected bowel segment. *Swenson, Duhamel, and Soave are surgical procedures for this condition* - This statement is **correct**. These are the classic and most common **pull-through surgical procedures** used to treat Hirschsprung disease. - They involve resecting the aganglionic segment and pulling the normal, ganglionated bowel down to the anus. *Mainly presents in infancy* - This statement is **correct**. Hirschsprung disease is primarily a **congenital condition** and is typically diagnosed in newborns and infants. - Common presenting symptoms include **failure to pass meconium** within the first 24-48 hours of life, abdominal distension, and bilious vomiting.
Question 45: Among pathological lead points, the commonest cause of intussusception is -
- A. Submucous lipoma
- B. Meckel's diverticulum (Correct Answer)
- C. Polyp
- D. Hypertrophy of submucous peyer's patches
Explanation: ***Meckel's diverticulum*** - Among **pathological lead points** specifically, **Meckel's diverticulum** is the most common cause of intussusception. - It is a true congenital diverticulum that can act as a lead point when it becomes inverted, inflamed, or has associated ectopic tissue or tumors. - While overall intussusception in children is mostly idiopathic, when a **pathological lesion** is identified, Meckel's diverticulum is the leading cause. - Seen in approximately 2% of the population, it follows the "rule of 2s" and is the most frequent anatomical abnormality causing pathological intussusception in pediatric patients. *Hypertrophy of submucous Peyer's patches* - **Peyer's patch hypertrophy** is the most common cause of intussusception **overall** in children (90% of cases), typically following viral infections. - However, this represents **idiopathic intussusception**, not a true pathological lead point, as no discrete anatomical lesion is identified. - The question specifically asks for pathological lead points, which excludes this idiopathic mechanism. *Submucous lipoma* - A **submucous lipoma** can serve as a pathological lead point for intussusception, but is much rarer. - More commonly seen in adults rather than children. - While it is a true pathological lesion, it is less frequent than Meckel's diverticulum as a lead point. *Polyp* - **Polyps** (adenomatous, hamartomatous, or inflammatory) can act as pathological lead points. - More common in adults and in specific syndromes (e.g., Peutz-Jeghers syndrome). - Less frequent than Meckel's diverticulum among pathological causes in the pediatric population.
Question 46: What is the most important presenting feature of periampullary carcinoma?
- A. Jaundice (Correct Answer)
- B. Abdominal Pain
- C. Unintentional Weight Loss
- D. Palpable Abdominal Mass
Explanation: ***Jaundice*** - **Painless obstructive jaundice** is the hallmark symptom, occurring early due to the tumor's proximity to the common bile duct. - The obstruction of bile flow leads to the accumulation of **bilirubin**, causing yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes. *Abdominal Pain* - While **abdominal pain** can occur, it is often a later symptom and is less specific than jaundice for early diagnosis. - Pain typically arises from tumor growth, invasion of surrounding structures, or pancreatic involvement. *Unintentional Weight Loss* - **Unintentional weight loss** is a common constitutional symptom of many advanced malignancies, including periampullary carcinoma. - However, it usually manifests at a later stage and is not the initial, specific presenting feature that prompts investigation. *Palpable Abdominal Mass* - A **palpable abdominal mass** is rare in early periampullary carcinoma, as these tumors are typically small and deeply seated. - Its presence usually indicates advanced disease with significant tumor burden or metastasis.
Question 47: What is the best marker to assess prognosis after surgery for colon carcinoma?
- A. CA 19-9
- B. CA-125
- C. Alpha fetoprotein
- D. CEA (Correct Answer)
Explanation: ***CEA*** - Carcinoembryonic antigen (**CEA**) is a well-established tumor marker for monitoring colorectal cancer post-surgery and assessing prognosis [1]. - Elevated **CEA levels** after surgery may indicate recurrence or residual disease, making it valuable in follow-up care [1]. *CA 19-9* - Primarily associated with **pancreatic** and **biliary tract cancers**, and not specific for colon carcinoma. - While it may elevate in some gastrointestinal malignancies, it is not the best indicator for prognosis after colon cancer surgery. *Alpha fetoprotein* - Mostly used for monitoring **hepatocellular carcinoma** and germ cell tumors, not colorectal malignancies. - Elevated levels are not typically correlated with prognosis in colon cancer patients. *CA-125* - Mainly utilized as a tumor marker for **ovarian cancer** and some other malignancies, not specifically for colon carcinoma. - Its use in colorectal cancer prognosis is limited and lacks relevance in this context. **References:** [1] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. (Basic Pathology) introduces the student to key general principles of pathology, both as a medical science and as a clinical activity with a vital role in patient care. Part 2 (Disease Mechanisms) provides fundamental knowledge about the cellular and molecular processes involved in diseases, providing the rationale for their treatment. Part 3 (Systematic Pathology) deals in detail with specific diseases, with emphasis on the clinically important aspects., pp. 253-254.
Question 48: All of the following are surgical options in the management of esophageal carcinoma except -
- A. Ivor Lewis Approach
- B. McKeown's Approach
- C. Transhiatal removal
- D. Sistrunk operation (Correct Answer)
Explanation: ***Sistrunk operation*** - The **Sistrunk operation** is a surgical procedure specifically designed for the removal of a **thyroglossal duct cyst**, not for esophageal carcinoma. - This procedure involves excising the cyst along with the central portion of the hyoid bone and the tract leading to the foramen cecum to prevent recurrence. *Ivor Lewis Approach* - The **Ivor Lewis approach** is a common and established surgical technique for **esophagectomy**, involving both abdominal and right thoracic incisions for tumor resection and reconstruction. - It is often used for tumors in the mid to distal esophagus. *Mckeown's Approach* - The **McKeown's approach** is another well-known surgical technique for **esophagectomy**, typically used for more proximal esophageal tumors. - This involves three incisions: abdominal, right thoracic, and cervical, allowing for extensive lymphadenectomy. *Transhiatal removal* - **Transhiatal esophagectomy** is a surgical option for esophageal cancer that involves abdominal and cervical incisions without a thoracic incision. - This approach is often favored in patients with significant comorbidities who may not tolerate a full thoracotomy.
Question 49: Which of the following statements about heart transplantation is false?
- A. High pulmonary arterial resistance is a contraindication
- B. It is only orthotopic and not heterotopic (Correct Answer)
- C. Immunosuppression is started preoperatively
- D. A beating heart cadaver/donor is not always needed.
Explanation: ***It is only orthotopic and not heterotopic*** - This statement is **FALSE**, making it the correct answer to this question asking for the false statement. - While **orthotopic transplantation** (replacing the recipient's heart with the donor heart in its normal anatomical position) is the overwhelmingly predominant method, **heterotopic transplantation** (leaving the recipient's heart in place and implanting the donor heart as an auxiliary "piggyback" pump) has been performed as an alternative technique. - Heterotopic transplantation, though rarely used in modern practice, was described and performed in select cases, particularly when the donor heart is undersized or when severe pulmonary hypertension is present. Therefore, the claim that heart transplantation is "only orthotopic" is incorrect. *Immunosuppression is started preoperatively* - This statement is **TRUE**. - **Immunosuppressive therapy** is typically initiated intraoperatively or in some protocols may begin preoperatively to prevent hyperacute and acute rejection. - Induction immunosuppression aims to suppress the recipient's immune response before it can react to the transplanted organ, improving early graft survival. *High pulmonary arterial resistance is a contraindication* - This statement is **TRUE**. - **Fixed pulmonary hypertension** with elevated pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR >4-5 Wood units or transpulmonary gradient >15 mmHg unresponsive to vasodilators) is a **contraindication** for isolated heart transplantation. - The donor right ventricle may not be able to pump against high pulmonary pressures, leading to acute right heart failure. - Such patients may require combined heart-lung transplantation or medical optimization to reduce pulmonary vascular resistance before transplantation can be considered. *A beating heart cadaver/donor is not always needed* - This statement is considered **TRUE**, though with important caveats. - Traditionally, heart transplantation has relied almost exclusively on **beating-heart donors** (brain-dead donors with maintained cardiac function) to ensure organ viability. - The statement acknowledges that in rare circumstances or with advanced preservation techniques, the absolute requirement for a beating heart might be questioned, though in practical terms beating-heart donation remains the standard for heart transplantation.
Question 50: What is the most common cause of lateral aberrant thyroid tissue?
- A. Ectopic thyroid tissue due to developmental anomalies
- B. Thyroid tissue in the mediastinum
- C. Metastatic thyroid carcinoma (Correct Answer)
- D. Lingual thyroid
Explanation: ***Metastatic thyroid carcinoma*** - **Metastatic papillary thyroid carcinoma** to cervical lymph nodes is the most common cause of lateral aberrant thyroid tissue - The term "lateral aberrant thyroid" is a **historical misnomer** that has been abandoned in modern thyroid surgery - What was previously thought to be ectopic thyroid tissue in lateral neck nodes is virtually always **metastatic disease** - Papillary thyroid carcinoma commonly metastasizes to **regional lymph nodes**, which then contain thyroid follicular cells - This represents **lymph node metastases**, not developmental ectopia *Ectopic thyroid tissue due to developmental anomalies* - True developmental ectopia of thyroid tissue in the **lateral neck is extremely rare to nonexistent** - The thyroid gland originates from the **foramen cecum in the midline** and descends along the thyroglossal duct - Developmental ectopic thyroid occurs in **midline structures** (lingual thyroid, thyroglossal duct remnants), not laterally - The concept of "lateral aberrant thyroid" as a developmental anomaly has been **disproven** *Thyroid tissue in the mediastinum* - Mediastinal thyroid tissue represents **substernal or retrosternal goiter** that has descended into the chest - This describes a different anatomical location (mediastinum vs. lateral neck) - Not related to lateral cervical masses *Lingual thyroid* - Lingual thyroid is ectopic thyroid tissue located at the **base of the tongue** - This is a **midline structure**, not a lateral neck finding - Represents failure of thyroid descent during embryological development