OVERVIEW

Malunion and non-union are orthopaedic conditions that arise during the healing process of a fractured bone. Malunion occurs when a fractured bone heals in an improper alignment, resulting in a deformity. This misalignment can lead to functional impairment, pain, and aesthetic concerns.

Non-union, on the other hand, is characterized by the failure of a fractured bone to heal within the expected time frame. Despite adequate treatment, the bone fails to unite, posing challenges in restoring normal function.

Types of malunion and non-union:

1. Angular malunion: The bone heals with an angular deformity, causing misalignment along the axis.
2. Rotational malunion: This occurs when the bone twists during the healing process, leading to functional limitations.
3. Shortening malunion: The bone heals with a length discrepancy, affecting limb function and overall biomechanics.

Non-union can be classified into:

1. Hypertrophic non-union: Excessive bone formation at the fracture
2. Atrophic non-union: Insufficient bone formation, often associated with poor blood supply.
3. Oligotrophic non-union: An intermediate state with limited bone formation.

causes:

Several factors contribute to malunion and non-union, including:

1. Inadequate immobilization: Improper casting or fixation can disrupt the normal healing process.
2. Poor blood supply: Insufficient blood flow to the fracture site hampers the delivery of essential nutrients for healing.
3. Infection: Bacterial contamination can impede the healing process and lead to non-union.
4. Patient-related factors: Smoking, poor nutrition, advanced age, and certain medical conditions can hinder bone healing.