American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

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Prepare for the ABS QE with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question provides hints and explanations to enhance understanding. Start your journey to becoming a certified surgeon and tackle your exam with confidence!

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What vascular structure is at risk in a posterior shoulder dislocation?

  1. Subclavian artery

  2. Axillary artery

  3. Brachial artery

  4. Femoral artery

The correct answer is: Axillary artery

In the context of a posterior shoulder dislocation, the axillary artery is particularly at risk due to its anatomical location and the mechanics involved during such an injury. The axillary artery runs through the axilla and is closely associated with the shoulder joint and related structures. When a posterior shoulder dislocation occurs, the displacement of the humeral head can put significant stress on the surrounding soft tissues, leading to potential injury to the axillary artery. In addition, the proximity of the axillary artery to the shoulder joint means that trauma in this region could directly affect the vasculature. Injuries to the axillary artery can result in serious complications, including ischemia of the shoulder and upper extremity. It is crucial for clinicians to be aware of this risk during the assessment and management of shoulder dislocations. The other vascular structures listed do not have the same direct relationship with posterior shoulder dislocation. The subclavian artery is located more proximally and is less likely to be directly affected by dislocations at the shoulder joint. The brachial artery is found further down the arm and is also not in immediate risk from a shoulder dislocation. The femoral artery is located in the thigh and is entirely unrelated to shoulder trauma. This highlights why the