Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

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What is the term for a partially dislocated joint?

Subluxation
Malrotation
Avulsion
Malunion

The correct answer is: Subluxation

A partially dislocated joint is referred to as subluxation. This term indicates that the joint surfaces have lost their normal alignment, but they remain in partial contact with each other. In contrast to a complete dislocation, where the joint surfaces are entirely separated, a subluxation allows for some degree of stability and contact. Understanding this term is vital, especially in the surgical and rehabilitation contexts, as it may influence treatment strategies and the expected recovery process. Malrotation pertains to an abnormal rotational position of a structure and does not imply a dislocated condition. Avulsion refers to an injury where a body structure, such as a tendon or ligament, is torn away from its attachment, which is also unrelated to joint dislocation. Malunion describes a fracture that heals improperly and does not correspond to the condition of a partially dislocated joint. These distinctions highlight why subluxation is the correct term for a partially dislocated joint.