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

Operative interference is sometimes necessary for ankylosis or locking of the joint after the fracture is united, or to relieve the ulnar nerve when it is involved in callus.

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

It may follow upon fibrous or cartilaginous ankylosis, or may result from the fusion of two articular surfaces which have lost their cartilage and become covered with granulations.

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

The joint is usually completely disorganised and ankylosis results.

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

When arrested during the initial stage, recovery may be complete; but when there has been destruction of the articular surfaces, there is apt to be ankylosis of the joint and shortening of the limb.

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