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What characterizes a compression fracture?
The ends of bones are driven together
The bone collapses on itself
The bone is broken with fragments
The bone is bent but not completely broken
The correct answer is: The bone collapses on itself
A compression fracture is characterized by the bone collapsing on itself, which often occurs in the vertebrae due to a fall, osteoporosis, or other conditions that weaken the bone structure. When a compression fracture occurs, the height of the bone decreases, resulting in a wedge-shaped appearance, typically seen in spinal fractures. This type of fracture is particularly common in older adults who may have weakened bones. The focus on the collapse of the bone rather than merely the breaking of the bone or the bending of it is crucial – it reflects the conditions under which compression fractures typically occur and how they affect bone integrity. Understanding this characteristic helps in diagnosing and managing such fractures effectively.