What term describes fractures that occur in weakened bones due to disease?

The term that describes fractures occurring in weakened bones due to disease is "pathological fractures." These fractures typically happen in bones that have been compromised by various medical conditions such as osteoporosis, cancer, or infections. Unlike traumatic fractures, which result from a significant force or impact, pathological fractures occur without a strong or excessive force because the bone's structural integrity is already impaired.

Pathological fractures highlight the importance of underlying health issues impacting bone strength, recognizing that a fracture can occur even under normal conditions because the bone is not healthy. This understanding is crucial for proper coding and treatment planning in a clinical setting, as it indicates that the primary issue is the underlying disease rather than external trauma.