Definition
diaphysis
noun
- The shaft or central part of a long bone, between the two ends (epiphyses).
Usage: anatomy; medical
Examples
- The diaphysis of the femur is the longest and strongest part of the thighbone.
- During childhood, the diaphysis and epiphyses are separated by cartilage.
- Fractures of the diaphysis are common in long bones like the tibia and fibula.
- The diaphysis contains the medullary cavity, which houses bone marrow.
- As a person grows, the diaphysis lengthens through endochondral ossification.