Question

In what order should an orthopedic surgeon cut through the major layers and specific tissues to reach the femur (thigh bone) for repairing a fracture?

1) Skin, subcutaneous tissue, fascia, muscles, periosteum, bone
2) Muscles, fascia, subcutaneous tissue, skin, periosteum, bone
3) Skin, fascia, subcutaneous tissue, muscles, periosteum, bone
4) Muscles, subcutaneous tissue, fascia, skin, periosteum, bone

Answer 1

To perform surgery on a fractured femur, the orthopedic surgeon cuts through the layers in the following order: skin, subcutaneous tissue, fascia, muscles, periosteum, and bone. The correct sequence ensures that the surgeon reaches the bone in a systematic manner without missing any critical tissues that need to be navigated or preserved for successful repair.

Step-by-step explanation:

To access and repair a fractured femur, an orthopedic surgeon would cut through the major layers and specific tissues in a sequential manner. This process typically follows the natural anatomical layering of the leg.

1. Skin: The first layer to cut, serving as the body's protective covering.
2. Subcutaneous tissue: This layer of fat and connective tissue lies beneath the skin and serves as insulation and padding.
3. Fascia: A fibrous tissue layer enclosing and separating muscles.
4. Muscles: These tissues are responsible for movement. In the thigh, this includes compartments containing the quadriceps femoris group and the hamstrings, among others.
5. Periosteum: A dense layer of vascular connective tissue enveloping the bones except at the surfaces of the joints.
6. Bone: The femur itself, which is the longest and strongest bone of the body.

The correct sequence for approaching a femur for surgical repair of a fracture is skin, subcutaneous tissue, fascia, muscles, periosteum, and then finally the bone. Therefore, the correct answer is option 1: Skin, subcutaneous tissue, fascia, muscles, periosteum, bone.