Intracapsular fracture is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription system as [ˌɪn.trəˈkæp.sjʊ.lər ˈfræk.tʃər]. This word refers to a type of bone fracture that occurs within the joint capsule, which is the protective structure that encloses certain joints. The spelling of this word can be complicated, as it includes several syllables and blends sounds from multiple consonants and vowels. Despite its complexity, proper spelling of medical terminology is crucial to effective communication and accurate diagnosis.
Intracapsular fracture is a medical term used to describe a specific type of bone fracture that occurs within the joint capsule of a bone. The joint capsule is a tough, fibrous, and flexible structure that surrounds and encloses a joint, providing stability and support.
When a bone breaks within the joint capsule, it is referred to as an intracapsular fracture. This type of fracture typically affects the neck of the femur bone in the hip joint, but can also occur in other joints such as the shoulder or knee.
Intracapsular fractures are usually the result of high-energy trauma or age-related degenerative conditions that weaken the bones. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, and osteoporosis.
Symptoms of an intracapsular fracture may include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected joint. Since these fractures occur within the joint capsule, they can disrupt the blood supply to the bone, increasing the risk of complications such as avascular necrosis, where the bone tissue dies due to insufficient blood flow.
Treatment for intracapsular fractures may involve non-surgical or surgical approaches depending on various factors including the severity of the fracture, the patient's age, and overall health. Non-surgical treatment options may include casting, bracing, and physical therapy to promote healing and restore joint function. Surgical interventions, such as internal fixation or joint replacement, may be necessary for more severe fractures or when conservative methods fail to provide adequate healing and relief.
Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing intracapsular fractures and minimizing the risk of long-term complications.
• One at the articular extremity of a bone within the line of insertion of the capsular ligament of the joint.
• Fracture of the neck of the femur within the capsule of the hip-joint.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "intracapsular fracture" is composed of two main components: "intra-" and "capsular".
1. "Intra-" is a prefix derived from Latin, meaning "within" or "inside". It is commonly used in English to indicate something situated or occurring inside a particular object or area.
2. "Capsular" is an adjective derived from the noun "capsule", which refers to a small container or envelope. In medical terminology, "capsular" is used to describe something related to or associated with a capsule, which, in this case, primarily refers to the joint capsule.
Therefore, combining these two components, "intracapsular fracture" refers to a fracture that occurs within the joint capsule of a joint in the body.