American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

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Prepare for the ABSA Orthopedic Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed hints and explanations. Boost your exam readiness!

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What term describes the failure of fractured bone ends to heal together?

Malunion
Non-union
Delayed union
Osteogenesis

The correct answer is: Non-union

The term that describes the failure of fractured bone ends to heal together is non-union. This condition occurs when the fracture site does not heal adequately, resulting in a persistent gap between the fractured bone ends. Non-union can lead to significant functional impairment and chronic pain, making surgical intervention or other treatments necessary to promote bone healing. In contrast, malunion refers to a situation where the bone heals but in an incorrect position, leading to deformity. Delayed union describes a scenario where the healing process takes longer than expected, but there is still a potential for eventual healing. Osteogenesis simply refers to the process of bone formation and does not pertain specifically to the healing of fractures. Understanding these distinctions helps in diagnosing and managing different complications of bone healing effectively.