American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

In orthopedic practice, what condition is characterized by a displacement of the femoral head?

1. Fracture

2. Osteoarthritis

3. Slipped capital femoral epiphysis

4. Paget's disease

The correct answer is: Slipped capital femoral epiphysis

The condition characterized by a displacement of the femoral head is indeed slipped capital femoral epiphysis. This condition commonly occurs in adolescents and involves slippage of the ball at the head of the femur, which can lead to significant complications if not treated promptly. The displacement happens at the growth plate, leading to an altered position of the femoral head relative to the neck of the femur, often resulting in hip pain and limited range of motion. In contrast, a fracture refers to a break in the bone, which may or may not involve displacement, but it does not specifically pertain to the femoral head displacement seen in slipped capital femoral epiphysis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects cartilage and results in joint pain and stiffness but does not cause the displacement of the femoral head. Paget's disease involves the abnormal remodeling of bone and may lead to deformities or fractures but is not specifically characterized by displacement of the femoral head. Understanding this distinction is crucial for orthopedic practitioners, as it informs diagnosis and subsequent management of these conditions.