DISLOCA′TION

Syn. Luxation ; Dislocatio , L. The forcible displacement of a bone from its socket, either by violence or disease. The latter happens when the textures forming the joint have been destroyed by some independent organic affection. “A considerable share of anatomical knowledge is required to detect the nature of these accidents; and it is much to be lamented that students neglect to inform themselves sufficiently on the subject.” (Sir A. Cooper.) In common cases the bones may be frequently replaced by forcibly extending the limb. This should be done as early as po ible, and before inflammation sets in. The latter should be combated by aperients, local bleeding, refrigerant lotions, . Dislocations frequently exist without the fact being suspected, the swelling and inflammation being referred to other causes.