LONGITUDINAL FRACTURE Meaning and
Definition
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Longitudinal fracture is a specific type of fracture that occurs when the bone cracks along its length, running parallel to its long axis. It is a common term used in the field of orthopedics to describe a break in a bone that resembles a long line or split, rather than a complete separation into different segments.
Longitudinal fractures typically result from direct forces applied along the length of the bone, such as from a direct blow or crushing injury. They can also occur due to repetitive stress or overuse, particularly in weight-bearing bones like the femur or tibia.
The severity of a longitudinal fracture can vary depending on factors such as the location, extent, and displacement of the crack. In some cases, the fracture can be stable, with the bone sections remaining aligned and intact. However, it is also possible for the fracture to be unstable, leading to bone displacement or even complete separation.
Diagnosis of a longitudinal fracture usually involves a physical examination, evaluation of symptoms, and imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans. Treatment options depend on the specific characteristics of the fracture, but may include immobilization with casts or braces, medication for pain management, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the bone fragments.
Overall, a longitudinal fracture refers to a type of bone breakage that occurs along the length of the bone, running parallel to its axis.
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One involving the bone in the line of its axis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LONGITUDINAL FRACTURE
- kongitudinal fracture
- pongitudinal fracture
- oongitudinal fracture
- lingitudinal fracture
- lkngitudinal fracture
- llngitudinal fracture
- lpngitudinal fracture
- l0ngitudinal fracture
- l9ngitudinal fracture
- lobgitudinal fracture
- lomgitudinal fracture
- lojgitudinal fracture
- lohgitudinal fracture
- lonfitudinal fracture
- lonvitudinal fracture
- lonbitudinal fracture
- lonhitudinal fracture
- lonyitudinal fracture
- lontitudinal fracture
- longutudinal fracture
Etymology of LONGITUDINAL FRACTURE
The word "longitudinal fracture" consists of two parts: "longitudinal" and "fracture".
- "Longitudinal" comes from the Latin word "longitudo", which means "length". It is derived from the Latin words "longus", meaning "long", and "tudine", meaning "state" or "condition". Therefore, "longitudinal" refers to something that is oriented or aligned in the direction of its length.
- "Fracture" comes from the Latin word "fractura", which means "a break". It is derived from the Latin verb "frangere", meaning "to break". Therefore, "fracture" refers to the act or result of breaking.
In the context of medical terminology, a "longitudinal fracture" is a type of bone fracture that occurs along the length of the bone.
