Post-Surgical Problem Fractures – Nonunions and Malunions
Description
Sometimes a fractured or broken bone heals improperly or inadequately. Failure to heal properly is known as “malunion.” Failure to heal fully is known as “nonunion.” Find out why these conditions occur and what can be done to treat them.
Causes & Triggers
- Impaired blood supply
- Improper or inadequate treatment
- Infection
- Shifting bone fragments during healing
Signs & Symptoms
- Crooked joints
- Pain
- Shortened limbs
Tips & Treatment
- When a bone takes longer than expected to heal, the condition is called “delayed union.”
- With proper treatment, most nonunion fractures heal completely.
- Treatment options for these problem fractures may include surgical stabilization using metal plates, pins or screws.
