What Happens If a Bone Heals Improperly After an Injury?

If bones grow improperly, it can lead to various conditions and outcomes. These may include deformities, impaired function of the affected limb or joint, chronic pain, and increased risk of fractures. Additionally, misaligned bones can affect overall posture and biomechanics, potentially leading to secondary complications

My girlfriend had a car accident in May, resulting in a broken lower leg.
After surgery, she had metal rods and screws placed and was discharged.
She has returned for follow-up visits 2 to 3 times, but the bone has not yet healed and is healing slowly.
Due to certain reasons, she has not been able to attend follow-up appointments.
Currently, she can walk slowly with minimal pain, but she wants to know what could happen if the bone does not heal properly or heals at an angle.
Thank you, doctor, for your response.

Guo Xiansheng, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/04

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

If the fracture has not healed properly and it has been more than six months to a year, it is classified as non-union and requires further intervention.
If healing is progressing slowly, it is referred to as delayed union, and observation may be warranted.
Non-union can lead to symptoms such as pain, inability to exert force, or difficulty in movement.
If the bone has healed in a malaligned position but the degree of misalignment is not severe and does not affect function, no further treatment may be necessary.
However, if the malalignment is significant and impacts function, further intervention is required, which may also present with symptoms of pain.

Reply Date: 2016/12/04

More Info

When a bone heals improperly after an injury, several complications can arise, which can significantly affect the patient's long-term health and mobility. In the case of your girlfriend, who suffered a leg fracture and has experienced slow healing, it is crucial to understand the potential outcomes of improper bone healing.

1. Malunion: This occurs when the bone heals in an incorrect position. For example, if the bone heals at an angle or in a misaligned manner, it can lead to deformities. Malunion can result in functional limitations, pain, and difficulty in performing daily activities. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to correct the alignment.

2. Nonunion: This is a more severe complication where the bone fails to heal completely. Nonunion can lead to persistent pain and instability in the affected limb. Patients may experience difficulty bearing weight on the injured leg, which can affect their overall mobility. Nonunion often requires surgical intervention, such as bone grafting or the use of specialized fixation devices to promote healing.

3. Infection: If the fracture was open (exposed to the environment), there is a risk of infection, especially if surgical hardware (like plates or screws) is involved. An infection can complicate the healing process and may require antibiotics or additional surgeries to address.

4. Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Improper healing can lead to joint misalignment, which may contribute to the development of post-traumatic arthritis. This condition can cause chronic pain, swelling, and stiffness in the affected joint, significantly impacting the patient's quality of life.

5. Chronic Pain: Even if the bone heals, improper alignment or incomplete healing can lead to chronic pain conditions. This pain may not only be localized to the injury site but can also radiate to surrounding areas due to compensatory movements or altered biomechanics.

6. Functional Limitations: Improper healing can lead to decreased range of motion and strength in the affected limb. This can hinder the ability to perform everyday activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or engaging in sports.

Given your girlfriend's situation, where she has not returned for follow-up appointments, it is essential to encourage her to seek medical advice as soon as possible. A healthcare professional can perform imaging studies, such as X-rays, to assess the healing status of the bone. If there are signs of malunion or nonunion, timely intervention is crucial to prevent further complications.

In summary, improper healing of a bone can lead to various complications, including malunion, nonunion, infection, post-traumatic arthritis, chronic pain, and functional limitations. It is vital for your girlfriend to follow up with her healthcare provider to ensure proper healing and address any potential issues early on. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and enhance her recovery process.

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