Orthopaedics · Skeletal System · Medium
Diastasis
Meaning: Abnormal separation of bones at a slightly movable fibrous or cartilaginous joint.
In practice: Widening of the symphysis pubis in an open-book pelvic injury is a classic example.
Quick check
Two questions on related orthopaedics words.
Which word means: Permanent shortening of muscle, tendon or fascia that restricts joint movement.
Answer: Contracture
Which word means: Backward displacement of a bone fragment from the vertebral body into the spinal canal.
Answer: Retropulsion
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