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

What is jeopardized in an anterior hip dislocation?

1. Femoral vein

2. Popliteal artery

3. Femoral artery

4. Sciatic nerve

The correct answer is: Femoral artery

In the context of an anterior hip dislocation, the structure that is most jeopardized is the femoral artery. Anterior dislocations of the hip typically occur due to trauma, and these dislocations can put significant stress on the surrounding anatomical structures. The femoral artery runs in close proximity to the joint, and as the femur is displaced, there is an increased risk of vascular injury. The femoral artery, as part of the vascular supply to the lower limb, is critical for providing oxygenated blood. Injury to this artery can result in significant complications, including avascular necrosis of the femoral head, limb ischemia, and potential need for surgical intervention. While the other structures listed have clinical relevance, their involvement is less directly associated with anterior dislocations. For example, the popliteal artery primarily serves the posterior aspect of the knee and is not typically involved in anterior hip dislocations. The sciatic nerve may also be affected in some hip injuries but is more commonly associated with posterior dislocations. Therefore, when considering the anatomy and typical complications associated with anterior hip dislocation, the femoral artery stands out as the most jeopardized structure.