ankylosis

American  

[ang-kuh-loh-sis] / ˌæŋ kəˈloʊ sɪs /

noun

1. Pathology. abnormal adhesion of the bones of a joint.

2. Anatomy. the union or consolidation of two or more bones or other hard tissues into one.

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ankylosis British  

/ ˌæŋkɪˈlɒtɪk, ˌæŋkɪˈləʊsɪs /

noun

1. abnormal adhesion or immobility of the bones in a joint, as by a direct joining of the bones, a fibrous growth of tissues within the joint, or surgery

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Other Word Forms

• ankylotic
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of ankylosis

First recorded in 1705–15; from Greek: “a stiffening of the joints”; see ancylo-, -osis

Example Sentences

Stiffness from adhesions is most intractable, and may, in spite of every attention, terminate in ankylosis even in cases where there has been no suppuration.

From Manual of Surgery Volume First: General Surgery. Sixth Edition. by Thomson, Alexis

In bony ankylosis the shadow of the two bones is a continuous one, the joint interval having been filled up.

From Manual of Surgery Volume First: General Surgery. Sixth Edition. by Thomson, Alexis

The ankylosis may be fibrous or osseous, and may be intra- or extra-articular.

From Manual of Surgery Volume Second: Extremities—Head—Neck. Sixth Edition. by Miles, Alexander

Deformity may also result from vicious union of a pathological fracture, permanent displacement of an epiphysis, contracture, ankylosis, or dislocation of the adjacent joint.

From Manual of Surgery Volume First: General Surgery. Sixth Edition. by Thomson, Alexis

In many instances where infection has occurred, ankylosis is the best result that can be hoped for.

From Manual of Surgery Volume Second: Extremities—Head—Neck. Sixth Edition. by Miles, Alexander