A term used in orthopaedics to describe a type of fracture displacement where the two ends of the broken bone are not opposed because they are being pulled apart.

This usually occurs due to over vigorous traction. It should be avoided because it delays union of the fracture.

Think traction. Then think distraction. :-) - I'm not kidding.

Dis*trac"tion (?), n. [L. distractio: cf. F. distraction.]

1.

The act of distracting; a drawing apart; separation.

To create distractions among us. Bp. Burnet.

2.

That which diverts attention; a diversion.

"Domestic distractions."

G. Eliot.

3.

A diversity of direction; detachment.

[Obs.]

His power went out in such distractions as Beguiled all species. Shak.

4.

State in which the attention is called in different ways; confusion; perplexity.

That ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction. 1 Cor. vii. 3.

5.

Confusion of affairs; tumult; disorder; as, political distractions.

Never was known a night of such distraction. Dryden.

6.

Agitation from violent emotions; perturbation of mind; despair.

The distraction of the children, who saw both their parents together, would have melted the hardest heart. Tatler.

7.

Derangement of the mind; madness.

Atterbury.

Syn. -- Perplexity; confusion; disturbance; disorder; dissension; tumult; derangement; madness; raving; franticness; furiousness.

 

© Webster 1913.

Log in or register to write something here or to contact authors.