Orthopaedics · Skeletal System · Medium
Arthrodesis
Meaning: A surgical procedure that permanently fuses the bones of a joint to relieve pain or instability.
In practice: Ankle arthrodesis gave her a stiff but pain-free joint after failed conservative treatment.
Word parts
- arthro- means joint
- -desis means fusing or binding
Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.
Quick check
Two questions on related orthopaedics words.
Which word means: Movement of a joint beyond its normal straight position, which can strain or tear supporting structures.
Answer: Hyperextension
Which word means: A joint disorder in which a fragment of bone and overlying cartilage loses blood supply and may separate.
Answer: Osteochondritis
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