PATHOLOGICAL FRACTURE Meaning and
Definition
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A pathological fracture refers to a type of bone fracture that occurs due to an underlying disease or condition that weakens the strength and integrity of the affected bone, resulting in a breakage with minimal trauma or force. This type of fracture typically happens in bones that are already compromised because of an existing pathology, such as tumors, osteoporosis, infections, or bone cysts.
Pathological fractures are different from regular fractures as they occur as a consequence of an already weakened bone rather than a result of direct trauma. The weakened bone structure makes it more susceptible to fractures and can often occur spontaneously or with minimal pressure, such as during routine activities or mild falls.
Symptoms of a pathological fracture may include sudden and severe pain, swelling, deformity or misalignment of the affected bone, limited range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.
Treatment for a pathological fracture involves addressing the underlying cause of bone weakening while also stabilizing the fractured bone. This can involve surgical intervention, such as bone grafting, fixation through pins, rods, or plates, or use of supportive devices like braces or casts. Rehabilitation and physical therapy may also be necessary to regain function and mobility.
Overall, pathological fractures are a result of an underlying condition weakening the bone structure, leading to an increased risk of fracture. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment not only address the specific fracture but also focus on managing the underlying condition to prevent future occurrences.
Common Misspellings for PATHOLOGICAL FRACTURE
- oathological fracture
- lathological fracture
- -athological fracture
- 0athological fracture
- pzthological fracture
- psthological fracture
- pwthological fracture
- pqthological fracture
- parhological fracture
- pafhological fracture
- paghological fracture
- payhological fracture
- pa6hological fracture
- pa5hological fracture
- patgological fracture
- patbological fracture
- patnological fracture
- patjological fracture
- patuological fracture
- patyological fracture
Etymology of PATHOLOGICAL FRACTURE
The word "pathological" originates from the Greek roots "pathos", meaning "disease" or "suffering", and "logos", meaning "study" or "word". It refers to anything related to the study or understanding of diseases.
On the other hand, the term "fracture" is derived from the Latin word "fractura", which means "a break" or "a breach".
So, when combined together, "pathological fracture" is a term coined to describe a bone fracture that occurs due to an underlying disease or condition weakening the bone, making it more susceptible to breakage.
