Advanced
Technical
IVT
Articular impaction
Compression and depression of joint surface bone due to axial loading forces during trauma.
Full Definition
Articular impaction occurs when high-energy trauma causes compression forces that drive one portion of the joint surface into the underlying cancellous bone, creating a depression or crater-like defect. This mechanism is commonly seen in tibial plateau fractures, calcaneal fractures, and humeral head fractures. The impacted bone fragments may require elevation and bone grafting during surgical reconstruction. Recognition of impaction patterns is crucial for proper surgical planning and restoration of joint congruity.
Usage
Usage note: Often requires measurement of depression depth for surgical decision-making.
In Context
- "CT imaging revealed significant articular impaction requiring bone graft augmentation during reduction." — Preoperative planning note
- "The tibial plateau demonstrated central articular impaction with associated depression of 8mm." — Surgical case report
Also known as
joint surface impaction
articular depression
Don't confuse with
articular step-off
articular displacement