Global neurological examination
Examination notes How is an apnoea test performed? Preoxygenate with 100% O2. Disconnect the ventilator (high-flow O2 may be administered through a catheter). Serial ABGs should be performed. A pCO2…
Knee x-ray
AP and HBL x-rays of the knee show a lipohaemarthrosis (arrow) due to displaced vertical lateral tibial plateau fracture (curved arrow). AP x-ray of the right knee shows anterior cruciate…
Examination of the lower limb venous system
Lower limb venous anatomy. What are the symptoms of chronic venous disease? Leg ache, heaviness, tightness or bursting pain associated with prolonged periods of standing Skin irritation or itchiness Leg…
Examination of the groin
The inguinal ligament runs between the ASIS and the pubic tubercle. The midpoint of the inguinal ligament is the middle of a line running between the ASIS and the pubic…
Examination of the neck and thyroid
What history points should be elicited for thyroid disease? Anxiety/mood Weight change Appetite Bowel habit Temperature preference Palpitations Visual disturbance Radiation exposure Family history Drug history – lithium/amiodarone What is…
Examination of ulcers
How can the aetiology of an ulcer be deduced from the examination findings? Arterial Venous Neuropathic Diabetic Malignant Location Distal areas: heels, tips of toes, metatarsal heads, dorsal and plantar…
Abdominal x-ray
Abdominal radiograph with right JJ stent and nephrostomy tube in situ. Abdominal radiograph shows dilated small bowel loops with air on both sides of well-defined bowel wall (arrowheads), consistent with…
Examination of the ankle
Rationale: This examination assesses the integrity of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL). Technique: With the patient sitting and 10° of plantarflexion, stabilise the tibia, with one hand and cup the…
Examination of the shoulder
Rationale: Assesses the patient for acute tears or tendinopathy and aids shoulder stability. Technique: This rotator cuff muscle is assessed with the ‘empty can test’. This involves abducting the shoulder…
Examination of abdominal scars
Midline laparotomy Position: vertical incision through the linea alba. Use: most widely used incision for exploring the abdominal cavity. Xiphisternum to pubis incisions are used for major operations, giving access…
