Under the Ottawa ankle rules, which finding means an ankle X-ray series is needed?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Inability to take four weight-bearing steps
- Step 1: The rules reduce unnecessary X-rays after ankle injuries with high sensitivity for fracture. Step 2. Pain in the malleolar zone together with bony tenderness at the posterior edge or tip of the malleolus, or inability to weight bear, triggers imaging. Answer: Inability to take four weight-bearing steps. Why not the others: Mild swelling without tenderness does not meet the rules. Thigh and toe findings are unrelated to the ankle rules.
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