A transfemoral amputee has an extremely short residual femur measuring less than 5 cm. In addition to difficulty suspending a socket, the residual limb characteristically drifts into which position because unopposed muscle action dominates?

• A Flexion, abduction and external rotation ✓
• B Adduction and internal rotation
• C Pure extension
• D Flexion with internal rotation

Explanation

With a very short femoral stump, the abductors (gluteus medius) and flexors acting close to the joint overpower the weakened extensor and adductor lever arms, pulling the stump into flexion, abduction and external rotation. This deformity makes prosthetic fitting nearly impossible and such stumps are often functionally equivalent to a hip disarticulation, sometimes prompting consideration of that level instead.

Reference: Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics, 14th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.