A depressed bone, specifically in the context of a depressed fracture, is a break in the skull where part of the bone is pushed inward, closer to the brain. According to the reference provided, a depressed fracture can involve multiple cracks and fragments.
In simpler terms, imagine the skull as a protective helmet. When a depressed fracture occurs, a portion of that helmet is dented inwards.
Key Characteristics of a Depressed Fracture:
- Inward Displacement: A fragment of the skull bone is pushed towards the brain.
- Potential for Fragmentation: The fracture may involve multiple bone fragments.
- Risk of Brain Injury: Because the bone is pushed inwards, there's a risk of injury to the brain tissue beneath the fracture.
Example:
Imagine a car accident where someone hits their head on the dashboard. The impact could cause a depressed fracture if it's forceful enough to push a piece of the skull inward.
Contrast with Basal (Basilar) Fracture:
It's important to distinguish a depressed fracture from a basal (basilar) fracture, which is a break in the bones at the base of the skull. While both are skull fractures, they occur in different locations and have different potential complications.
