Definition of "contracture" []

• An abnormal, often permanent shortening, as of muscle or scar tissue, that results in distortion or deformity, especially of a joint of the body. (noun)
• A deformity resulting from a contracture. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "A contracture is a shortening of muscles and tendons (cords) so that the full range of limb movement is prevented."
• "A submuscular placement of the breast implant reduces the risk of capsular contracture, which is a hardening of the tissue around the breast implant and is an undesirable complication."
• "Food and Drug Administration or in the European Union for the treatment of Dupuytren's contracture, which is treated primarily by an open surgical procedure."