What are the causes of fracture nonunion?

Dr. Casey Thompson
Dr. Casey Thompson Verified

Empathy in every care, excellence in every treatment.

2025-05-04 23:53:14 Views: 35 times

The causes of fracture nonunion include systemic factors, local factors, treatment factors and other factors, which can be manifested as pain, deformity, limited activity, etc., affecting quality of life. Fracture nonunion is a common bone disease. It refers to failure to reach the standard of fracture union within the expected time after fracture, abnormal movement of fracture end, x-ray showing less callus at fracture end, blurred boundary between callus and normal bone, or abnormal movement in molding period, x-ray showing sparse callus, widening of fracture end, and pseudoarthrosis. The following are some of the factors that may contribute to nonunion: 1. Systemic factors: Age: Aging prolongs bone healing, especially in the elderly, who are at higher risk of nonunion due to osteoporosis and decreased physical function. Health status: Diabetes, anemia, malnutrition, rheumatoid arthritis, etc., which can affect bone healing. Smoking: Smoking affects angiogenesis and bone cell function, increasing the risk of nonunion. 2. Local factors: Fracture location: Fractures at certain locations, such as the spine, pelvis, and femoral neck, are at higher risk of nonunion due to poor blood circulation. Fracture type: unstable fractures, comminuted fractures, or fractures with large separation of the fracture ends are more difficult to heal. Improper fracture management: 3. Treatment factors: Inadequate fixation: Infirm fixation can lead to fracture end movement, affecting bone healing. Premature weight bearing: Premature weight bearing activities can lead to fracture end to bear excessive pressure, affecting healing. Inappropriate rehabilitation training: unreasonable rehabilitation training may affect fracture healing and functional recovery. 4. Other factors: Some drugs, such as glucocorticoids, anticoagulants, etc., may affect bone healing. Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy can damage bone cells and blood vessels, affecting fracture healing. Fracture nonunion can lead to pain, deformity, limited mobility and other problems, seriously affecting the quality of life. If fracture nonunion occurs, seek medical attention promptly. Doctors will formulate appropriate treatment plans according to specific conditions, including re-operation, bone grafting, and the use of drugs to promote bone union. The key to preventing fracture nonunion is to pay attention to the following points during fracture treatment: 1. Actively treat underlying diseases and maintain good health. 2. Quit smoking. 3. Follow the doctor's advice, correct reduction, fixation and rehabilitation training. 4. Pay attention to nutritional balance, supplement enough protein, vitamin D and calcium. 5. Regular review, timely detection and treatment of problems. In short, fracture nonunion is a serious problem, which needs attention. Understanding the factors leading to fracture nonunion and taking corresponding preventive measures can improve the success rate of fracture union and reduce the occurrence of complications.



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