Orthopaedics · Skeletal System · Medium
Occult
Meaning: Hidden; describes a fracture suspected clinically but not visible on initial radiographs.
In practice: Repeat films 7 to 10 days later, MRI or a bone scan may reveal the injury.
Quick check
Two questions on related orthopaedics words.
Which word means: Divided into two parts, as when an ossification centre fails to fuse.
Answer: Bipartite
Which word means: Mechanical pinching of soft tissue between bones during movement, causing pain and wear.
Answer: Impingement
Words like occult come up in the daily game
One medical word a day, then a quick three-question quiz. Free on iPhone, or play in your browser on Android and computer.