Orthopaedics · Skeletal System · Medium
Teardrop
Meaning: Fracture where a triangular fragment breaks from the anteroinferior corner of a vertebral body.
In practice: The hyperflexion type, typically at C5, is highly unstable and often causes severe neurological deficit.
Quick check
Two questions on related orthopaedics words.
Which word means: Slender lateral bone of the lower leg that forms the outer ankle prominence.
Answer: Fibula
Which word means: Mechanical pinching of soft tissue between bones during movement, causing pain and wear.
Answer: Impingement
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