What is a fracture?
A sudden breaking of a bone due to trauma, stress or pathology
Fractures can be classified into different types based on their characteristics.
Define a simple fracture.
The bone is broken but there is no open wound in the skin
Simple fractures are also known as closed fractures.
What characterizes a compound fracture?
A bone is broken with an open wound in the skin
Compound fractures are also referred to as open fractures.
What is a comminuted fracture?
When the bone is splintered or crushed
This type of fracture often requires surgical intervention.
Define a compression fracture.
When bone is compressed, often occurring with vertebrae
Compression fractures are common in individuals with osteoporosis.
What is Ewing’s sarcoma?
A malignant bone tumor that usually occurs at an early age
It primarily affects children and young adults.
What is osteomyelitis?
An inflammation of the bone and bone marrow caused by bacterial infection
This condition can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly.
Define osteomalacia.
Softening of the bone caused by inadequate amounts of mineral or calcium
Osteomalacia can lead to bone pain and increased risk of fractures.
What is osteoporosis?
A decrease in bone density resulting in thinning and weakening of the bone
Osteoporosis increases the risk of fractures, especially in older adults.
What does arthr/o mean?
joint
Example: arthritis means inflammation of a joint.
Define articulation.
joint
To articulate means the joining or meeting of.
What is a ligament?
Connective tissue binding bones to other bones
Ligaments support and strengthen the joint.
What type of joint is a synovial joint?
Freely moveable joint
Synovial joints allow for a wide range of motion.
What is the function of a tendon?
Connective tissue that binds muscles to bones
Tendons transmit the force generated by muscles to bones.
What does chondr/o refer to?
cartilage
Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue found in various parts of the body.
What does rheumat/o mean?
watery flow
Example: rheumatoid arthritis denotes a collection of fluid in joint spaces.
What does serum calcium (Ca) measure?
The amount of calcium in blood (serum)
Serum calcium levels are important for various bodily functions, including bone health and muscle function.
What does serum phosphorus measure?
The amount of phosphorus in a sample of serum
Phosphorus is essential for energy production and bone health.
Define arthrocentesis.
Surgical puncture of the joint space with a needle to remove synovial fluid for analysis
This procedure is often used to diagnose joint disorders.
What is arthrography?
An x-ray examination of a joint after contrast media has been injected into the joint
This helps visualize the joint structure and any abnormalities.
What is the purpose of arthroscopy?
Visual examination of the inside of a joint with an endoscope
Surgical instruments can be passed through the arthroscope to remove tissue and repair the joint.
What is a bone scan?
A nuclear medicine study where a radioactive phosphate substance is injected intravenously and scanned for tumors, infection, and inflammation
This test helps detect bone diseases and conditions.
What does electromyography measure?
The strength of muscle contractions as a result of electrical stimulation
This examination helps assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them.
