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Occult hip fracture — ABFM Board MCQ

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HardMusculoskeletal/Sports medicineOccult hip fractureABFM Board

A 68-year-old woman has hip pain after a fall. The right leg is shortened and externally rotated, and she cannot bear weight. Initial anteroposterior pelvis radiograph is equivocal. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?

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Correct answer: C — CT or MRI to evaluate occult hip fracture

Inability to bear weight with a shortened externally rotated leg after a fall is highly concerning for hip fracture. If radiographs are equivocal, CT or MRI is indicated to identify occult fracture.

Reference: AAOS Hip Fracture Guideline