fibrous ankylosis; joint becomes stiff and immobile due to the formation of fibrous tissue

Описание: Fibrous ankylosis is a condition where a joint becomes stiff and immobile due to the formation of fibrous tissue between the articular surfaces, rather than true bone fusion. It is considered an incomplete or false ankylosis, because the joint surfaces are not fused by bone but are bound together by fibrous scar tissue.

🔍 Key Features of Fibrous Ankylosis
Definition: Loss of joint mobility due to fibrous tissue bridging the joint space.

Pathology: Occurs after chronic inflammation, infection, or trauma when granulation tissue organizes into fibrous scar tissue.

Mobility: The joint is stiff but may retain a small degree of movement (unlike bony ankylosis, which is completely immobile).

Pain: Often associated with pain during attempted movement.

Appearance on X-ray: Joint space may appear narrowed, but no bony fusion is seen.

Causes
Infections: Tuberculosis, septic arthritis.

Inflammatory conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

Trauma: Post-traumatic arthritis.

Degenerative changes: Chronic osteoarthritis in advanced stages.

Types of Ankylosis (for comparison)
Type Description Example
Fibrous ankylosis Joint surfaces connected by fibrous tissue; partial stiffness Rheumatoid arthritis
Bony ankylosis True fusion of joint surfaces by bone; complete immobility End-stage ankylosing spondylitis
False ankylosis Apparent stiffness due to extra-articular causes (e.g., muscle contracture) Post-burn contracture
Clinical Implications
Functional limitation: Reduced range of motion, difficulty in daily activities.

Progression: May evolve into bony ankylosis if chronic inflammation continues.

Management:

Physiotherapy to maintain mobility.

Anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial treatment depending on cause.

Surgical options (arthroplasty, excision arthroplasty) in severe cases

#Fibrous