Non-Union & Mal-Union Correction

Overview

Non-Union & Mal-Union Correction refers to advanced surgical procedures performed when a fractured bone fails to heal properly or heals in the wrong alignment.

These complications can lead to:

Persistent pain
Deformity
Limb shortening
Difficulty walking
Reduced joint function

Early expert intervention can restore alignment, stability, and function, preventing long-term disability.

What Is Non-Union?

Non-union occurs when a fracture does not heal even after adequate time (usually 6–9 months).

Causes include:

Poor blood supply
Infection
Inadequate stabilization
Smoking
Diabetes
Severe trauma

Patients may experience continuous pain and abnormal movement at the fracture site.

What Is Mal-Union?

Mal-union occurs when a fracture heals in an incorrect position, causing:

Limb deformity
Angular or rotational misalignment
Shortening
Joint imbalance
Abnormal gait

This may require corrective surgery to restore normal anatomy.

Surgical Treatment Options

1️⃣ Revision Fixation

Replacing or strengthening previous implants using:

Locking plates
Intramedullary nails
External fixators

2️⃣ Bone Grafting

To stimulate healing using:

Autograft (patient’s own bone)
Bone substitutes

3️⃣ Deformity Correction (Osteotomy)

Controlled bone cutting and realignment.

4️⃣ Infection Control Surgery

For infected non-unions.

Each case requires individualized surgical planning.

When Is Surgery Required?

Persistent fracture pain
No healing on X-ray
Visible deformity
Functional limitation
Previous surgery failure
Limb length discrepancy

Timely correction prevents arthritis and permanent disability.

Benefits of Corrective Surgery

✅ Restores bone alignment
✅ Promotes proper healing
✅ Reduces pain
✅ Improves mobility
✅ Corrects deformity
✅ Prevents joint degeneration

Recovery & Rehabilitation

Gradual weight bearing
Regular imaging follow-up
Physiotherapy for strength and mobility
Bone healing monitoring

Recovery duration depends on severity and technique used.