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Citation:
Feger J, Bell D, Torsion (bone). Reference article, Radiopaedia.org (Accessed on 06 Mar 2025) https://doi.org/10.53347/rID-79221
Torsion in bone refers to the rotation or contortion along the longitudinal axis of the bone.
The long bones, particularly the femur, humerus and tibia are most commonly affected by torsional abnormalities, that can be developmental or post-traumatic or can arise from overuse 1.
Torsion is measured in degrees and requires validated imaging protocols and anatomical landmarks and proper definition of reference points, which in bone are practically located at proximal and distal ends 1,2.
Two very common torsional measurements are femoral antetorsion and tibial torsion 2.
Torsional deformities might necessitate surgery in the form of rotational osteotomy to prevent joint damage 1,3.
See also
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1. Palmer W, Bancroft L, Bonar F et al. Glossary of Terms for Musculoskeletal Radiology. Skeletal Radiol. 2020;49(S1):1-33. doi:10.1007/s00256-020-03465-1 - Pubmed
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2. Schmaranzer F, Lerch T, Siebenrock K, Tannast M, Steppacher S. Differences in Femoral Torsion Among Various Measurement Methods Increase in Hips With Excessive Femoral Torsion. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2019;477(5):1073-83. doi:10.1097/CORR.0000000000000610 - Pubmed
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3. Balcarek P, Radebold T, Schulz X, Vogel D. Geometry of Torsional Malalignment Syndrome: Trochlear Dysplasia but Not Torsion Predicts Lateral Patellar Instability. Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine. 2019;7(3):232596711982979. doi:10.1177/2325967119829790 - Pubmed
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