NBME anatomy shelf Final Exam ( Updated 2025- 2026 ) 1 100 Complete Questions & Answers (Solved) 100% Correct Graded A+
Where and why are lumbar punctures performed? –
ANSWER-Spinal Block -> Anesthetic (into epidural space)
Spinal Tap -> CSF extraction (into subarachnoid space)W
B/W L3/L4 or L4/L5
NB: Posterior to this is *cauda equina*
Where does a *herniated intervertebral* disk occur?
What causes it? – ANSWER-Occurs b/w L4/L5 or *L5/S1*
and C5/C6 or C6/C7
NB: affects lower spinal nerve #
Degeneration of annulus fibrosis followed by *sudden
compression* of nucleus pulposus
What is the difference b/w *retrolisthesis* and
*spondylolisthesis*? – ANSWER-Retro – backwards
movement of vertebral bone
Spondylo – forward movement of bone
What is *lordosis*? – ANSWER-exaggerated *L*umbar
curvature
What is *kyphosis*? – ANSWER-exaggerated thoracic
curvature (can be seen w/osteoporosis)
