Intermediate
Technical
IVT
Diaphyseal fracture
A fracture occurring in the shaft or middle portion of a long bone, between the metaphyses.
Full Definition
A diaphyseal fracture occurs in the central shaft portion of long bones such as the femur, tibia, humerus, or radius/ulna. This location is characterized by cortical bone structure and differs biomechanically from metaphyseal or epiphyseal regions. These fractures often require intramedullary fixation due to the high mechanical loads experienced by the diaphysis. The healing process typically involves callus formation and secondary bone healing patterns.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the bone involved and fracture pattern for clarity in surgical reports.
In Context
- "The patient sustained a diaphyseal fracture of the femur requiring emergent surgical stabilization." — Emergency department documentation
- "Radiographs demonstrate a transverse diaphyseal fracture with minimal displacement." — Radiology report
Also known as
shaft fracture
mid-shaft fracture
Contrasted with
metaphyseal fracture
epiphyseal fracture
Don't confuse with
metaphyseal fracture
diametaphyseal fracture