CSFA Exam 2025 Study Guide | Comprehensive
Compilation of Updated Questions and Answers
Rated A
Procedure performed to remove the entire breast and axillary contents but spare the Pectoralis
major. - ANSWER-Modified Radical Mastectomy
The Spinal Column consists of how many Vertebrae? - ANSWER-33 (7 Cervical, 12 Thoracic, 5
Lumbar, 5 fused Sacral, and 4 fused Coccygeal)
Name the Four Distinct Curvatures of the Spine - ANSWER-Cervical Lordosis, Thoracic Kyphosis,
Lumbar Lordosis, and Sacral Kyphosis
In the Spine, What separates the dura mater from its bony framework? - ANSWER-A layer of
epidural fat
Most Frequently occurring tumors of the spine - ANSWER-Metastatic tumors (the spine is the
most common site for Skeletal Metastasis)
Newborn Vomiting, free of bile, and projectile in nature is indicative of what diagnosis? -
ANSWER-Pyloric Stenosis
Neurological Disorder, characterized by excruciating, "piercing" pain in the face is indicative of
what diagnosis? - ANSWER-Trigeminal Neuralgia
Neurotransmitter/Hormone that mediates impulse transmission at most Post-Ganglionic
Sympathetic Nerve endings - ANSWER-Norepinephrine (noradrenaline)
Neurotransmitter at all parasympathetic and pre-ganglionic sympathetic neurons - ANSWER-
Acetylcholine
The Right subclavian artery is a branch of what preceding vessel? - ANSWER-The
Brachiocephalic trunk (aka The Innominate Artery)
,The wall of the heart consists of how many layers? - ANSWER-3 (epicardium or pericardium,
myocardium, endocardium)
The vein that drains the Right Side of the Vertebral column - ANSWER-The Azygos Vein
Device used to siphon off excess CSF into the abdomen thereby decreasing intracranial pressure
- ANSWER-VP (ventriculo-peritoneal) shunt
Veins that drain the intracranial sinuses to veins outside of the skull - ANSWER-Emissary Veins
Disorder characterized by a compression of the Abductor Pollicis Longus and Extensor Pollicis
Brevis Tendons near the radial styloid process - ANSWER-De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
Following an injury to the lower limb, the patient's lower leg can easily be displaced anteriorly
on a fixed thigh; this is indicative of injury to what structure? - ANSWER-ACL (anterior cruciate
ligament) tear
Most frequently injured tendon of the rotator cuff - ANSWER-The supraspinatus (aka
supraspinous) tendon
Describe the steps taken during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy and the types of instruments
commonly used. - ANSWER-A laparoscopic cholecystectomy involves inflating the abdominal
cavity with carbon dioxide, making small incisions in the abdomen, and using a laparoscope to
visualize the gallbladder. Surgical instruments include graspers, scissors, and a hook
electrocautery for dissection.
What type of anesthesia is typically used during a cesarean section, and what are some
common medications administered? - ANSWER-Regional anesthesia, specifically spinal or
epidural anesthesia, is usually employed. Common medications include bupivacaine for
anesthesia and epinephrine to prolong the action.
In which anatomical location can the femoral nerve be found, and what is its significance in leg
movement? - ANSWER-The femoral nerve branches from the lumbar plexus (L2-L4) and runs
under the inguinal ligament to enter the thigh. It is crucial for knee extension and hip flexion.
Explain the role of the corona radiata in the central nervous system, particularly in relation to
brain function. - ANSWER-The corona radiata consists of a fan-like arrangement of axons that
carry signals to and from the cortex of the brain, facilitating communication between different
brain areas.
, Outline the physiological mechanisms involved in hemostasis following a vascular injury. -
ANSWER-Hemostasis involves three major steps: vascular spasm (vasoconstriction), platelet
plug formation (platelets adhere to the injury site and release signaling substances), and
coagulation (the formation of a fibrin clot through the cascade of clotting factors).
What are the risk factors for the development of pressure ulcers in postoperative patients, and
what preventative measures should be taken? - ANSWER-Risk factors include immobility, poor
nutrition, compromised circulation, and sensory impairment. Preventative measures include
regular repositioning, use of pressure-relieving devices, and ensuring proper nutrition.
Describe the anatomy and function of the brachial plexus and its relation to upper limb nerve
supply. - ANSWER-The brachial plexus is formed by the anterior rami of C5-T1 spinal nerves. It
supplies motor and sensory innervation to the upper limb, including muscles of the shoulder,
arm, and hand.
What is the significance of the hepatic portal system in digestion and metabolism? - ANSWER-
The hepatic portal system collects nutrient-rich blood from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen
and directs it to the liver for processing, detoxification, and regulation of glucose levels.
How do you differentiate between a simple and a complex wound? - ANSWER-A simple wound
typically involves only the epidermis and dermis and heals without complications, while a
complex wound involves deeper structures (muscle, fascia, bone) and may have associated
vascular or neurological injuries, requiring more intensive treatment.
What are the common indicators of post-operative infection, and what protocols should be
followed when they are suspected? - ANSWER-Common indicators include fever, increased pain
at the site, purulent drainage, and redness. Protocols include obtaining cultures, initiating
broad-spectrum antibiotics, and consulting infectious disease specialists if warranted.
What is the typical recovery timeline for a patient following total knee replacement surgery? -
ANSWER-Patients usually begin physical therapy within 24 hours of surgery, with mild swelling
and discomfort expected for weeks. Full functional recovery may take 3-6 months, while
achieving maximum improvement may take up to a year.
Explain the role of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in wound healing. - ANSWER-
VEGF promotes angiogenesis, enhancing blood supply to the wound site, which is vital for
delivering oxygen and nutrients, supporting cellular activities, and promoting effective healing.
What preoperative assessments are crucial for a patient scheduled for abdominal surgery? -
ANSWER-Critical assessments include a detailed medical history, physical examination,
Compilation of Updated Questions and Answers
Rated A
Procedure performed to remove the entire breast and axillary contents but spare the Pectoralis
major. - ANSWER-Modified Radical Mastectomy
The Spinal Column consists of how many Vertebrae? - ANSWER-33 (7 Cervical, 12 Thoracic, 5
Lumbar, 5 fused Sacral, and 4 fused Coccygeal)
Name the Four Distinct Curvatures of the Spine - ANSWER-Cervical Lordosis, Thoracic Kyphosis,
Lumbar Lordosis, and Sacral Kyphosis
In the Spine, What separates the dura mater from its bony framework? - ANSWER-A layer of
epidural fat
Most Frequently occurring tumors of the spine - ANSWER-Metastatic tumors (the spine is the
most common site for Skeletal Metastasis)
Newborn Vomiting, free of bile, and projectile in nature is indicative of what diagnosis? -
ANSWER-Pyloric Stenosis
Neurological Disorder, characterized by excruciating, "piercing" pain in the face is indicative of
what diagnosis? - ANSWER-Trigeminal Neuralgia
Neurotransmitter/Hormone that mediates impulse transmission at most Post-Ganglionic
Sympathetic Nerve endings - ANSWER-Norepinephrine (noradrenaline)
Neurotransmitter at all parasympathetic and pre-ganglionic sympathetic neurons - ANSWER-
Acetylcholine
The Right subclavian artery is a branch of what preceding vessel? - ANSWER-The
Brachiocephalic trunk (aka The Innominate Artery)
,The wall of the heart consists of how many layers? - ANSWER-3 (epicardium or pericardium,
myocardium, endocardium)
The vein that drains the Right Side of the Vertebral column - ANSWER-The Azygos Vein
Device used to siphon off excess CSF into the abdomen thereby decreasing intracranial pressure
- ANSWER-VP (ventriculo-peritoneal) shunt
Veins that drain the intracranial sinuses to veins outside of the skull - ANSWER-Emissary Veins
Disorder characterized by a compression of the Abductor Pollicis Longus and Extensor Pollicis
Brevis Tendons near the radial styloid process - ANSWER-De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
Following an injury to the lower limb, the patient's lower leg can easily be displaced anteriorly
on a fixed thigh; this is indicative of injury to what structure? - ANSWER-ACL (anterior cruciate
ligament) tear
Most frequently injured tendon of the rotator cuff - ANSWER-The supraspinatus (aka
supraspinous) tendon
Describe the steps taken during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy and the types of instruments
commonly used. - ANSWER-A laparoscopic cholecystectomy involves inflating the abdominal
cavity with carbon dioxide, making small incisions in the abdomen, and using a laparoscope to
visualize the gallbladder. Surgical instruments include graspers, scissors, and a hook
electrocautery for dissection.
What type of anesthesia is typically used during a cesarean section, and what are some
common medications administered? - ANSWER-Regional anesthesia, specifically spinal or
epidural anesthesia, is usually employed. Common medications include bupivacaine for
anesthesia and epinephrine to prolong the action.
In which anatomical location can the femoral nerve be found, and what is its significance in leg
movement? - ANSWER-The femoral nerve branches from the lumbar plexus (L2-L4) and runs
under the inguinal ligament to enter the thigh. It is crucial for knee extension and hip flexion.
Explain the role of the corona radiata in the central nervous system, particularly in relation to
brain function. - ANSWER-The corona radiata consists of a fan-like arrangement of axons that
carry signals to and from the cortex of the brain, facilitating communication between different
brain areas.
, Outline the physiological mechanisms involved in hemostasis following a vascular injury. -
ANSWER-Hemostasis involves three major steps: vascular spasm (vasoconstriction), platelet
plug formation (platelets adhere to the injury site and release signaling substances), and
coagulation (the formation of a fibrin clot through the cascade of clotting factors).
What are the risk factors for the development of pressure ulcers in postoperative patients, and
what preventative measures should be taken? - ANSWER-Risk factors include immobility, poor
nutrition, compromised circulation, and sensory impairment. Preventative measures include
regular repositioning, use of pressure-relieving devices, and ensuring proper nutrition.
Describe the anatomy and function of the brachial plexus and its relation to upper limb nerve
supply. - ANSWER-The brachial plexus is formed by the anterior rami of C5-T1 spinal nerves. It
supplies motor and sensory innervation to the upper limb, including muscles of the shoulder,
arm, and hand.
What is the significance of the hepatic portal system in digestion and metabolism? - ANSWER-
The hepatic portal system collects nutrient-rich blood from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen
and directs it to the liver for processing, detoxification, and regulation of glucose levels.
How do you differentiate between a simple and a complex wound? - ANSWER-A simple wound
typically involves only the epidermis and dermis and heals without complications, while a
complex wound involves deeper structures (muscle, fascia, bone) and may have associated
vascular or neurological injuries, requiring more intensive treatment.
What are the common indicators of post-operative infection, and what protocols should be
followed when they are suspected? - ANSWER-Common indicators include fever, increased pain
at the site, purulent drainage, and redness. Protocols include obtaining cultures, initiating
broad-spectrum antibiotics, and consulting infectious disease specialists if warranted.
What is the typical recovery timeline for a patient following total knee replacement surgery? -
ANSWER-Patients usually begin physical therapy within 24 hours of surgery, with mild swelling
and discomfort expected for weeks. Full functional recovery may take 3-6 months, while
achieving maximum improvement may take up to a year.
Explain the role of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in wound healing. - ANSWER-
VEGF promotes angiogenesis, enhancing blood supply to the wound site, which is vital for
delivering oxygen and nutrients, supporting cellular activities, and promoting effective healing.
What preoperative assessments are crucial for a patient scheduled for abdominal surgery? -
ANSWER-Critical assessments include a detailed medical history, physical examination,
