Get Through MRCS: Anatomy PDF

PREFACE

The original ‘Get through MRCS: Anatomy Vivas' was published some 5 years ago and proved to be a very popular little book. The aim was not to present an exhaustive anatomy text or a list of all the possible questions candidates could be asked, but rather a group of selected questions that were remembered by previous candidates that represented frequently occurring topics. These were presented with model answers and explanations that would both educate the reader and highlight gaps in their knowledge that could be filled by reading the relevant chapter in a good anatomy text.

In 2010 the format of the intercollegiate MRCS exam changed. Instead of the traditional viva voce, a more standardised and structured OSCE style exam is now used to test anatomy. The candidates rotate around 20 stations (including two resting stations), each lasting 10 minutes (including 1 minute of reading time). All stations have an equal value. Anatomy and Surgical Pathology represents one of the four domains. There are three anatomy stations, two generic and one specialty choice. The new-style exam allows the candidate to choose an area of specialisation from the following four categories:

1. limbs and spine

2. head and neck

3. thorax and abdomen

4. neuroscience.

All candidates are expected to have a basic knowledge of all four areas but can select an area for more in-depth questioning. The anatomy stations use a variety of props to prompt questions, including wet specimens, radiological images, photographs, bones and live models. The examiners usually start with pure anatomy questions and then lead on to clinically relevant points, operative details and surgical pathology, all around the same topic. There will be a variety of questions ranging in difficulty, usually starting easier and progressing to greater depth if answered well.

This second edition has been designed to match the new format of the exam and to add new questions that have been asked recently. As with the original book we have presented a selection of questions from across the regions with answers and explanations.