Intermediate
Technical
IVT
cortical defect
A gap or void in the hard outer layer of bone following trauma or surgical intervention.
Full Definition
A cortical defect refers to a discontinuity in the dense outer cortical bone that can occur from high-energy trauma, infection, or surgical procedures. In orthopedic trauma, these defects may compromise bone strength and healing potential. Editors should note this term describes the structural gap itself, not the clinical condition causing it. Documentation often includes measurements of defect size and location for surgical planning.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify location and size when documenting cortical defects in clinical reports.
In Context
- "The 3-cm cortical defect in the femoral shaft required bone grafting during the revision procedure." — Operative report
- "Post-traumatic cortical defects may predispose to refracture at the same site." — Clinical journal article
Also known as
bone defect
cortical gap
Contrasted with
cortical continuity
intact cortex
Don't confuse with
cortical erosion
cortical thinning