Synostosis

Definition

Synostosis is the process by which two bones, originally separate, fuse together to form a single rigid unit. This typically occurs as a normal part of aging or healing after certain types of fractures.

Related terms

Fibrous joints: These are fixed joints connected by dense connective tissue, offering little to no movement.

Suture: A type of fibrous joint found only in the skull, where segments are tightly bound but may fuse completely in synostosis.

Ossification:

The process by which new bone is formed, often playing a key role in the fusion of bones during synostosis