The multi-factorial and occult causes of fracture non-union

IntroductionFracture non-union is a devastating cause of patient morbidity. The cost of NU treatment ranges from £7,000 to £79,000. With an estimated 11,700 cases in the UK pa the financial implications are huge, potentially costing several hundreds of million of pounds annually.Successful outcome in the management of non-union is based upon correctly identifying the underlying cause(s) and addressing them appropriately.AimThe aim of this study was to assess the causative factors in non-union in order to optimize the management of non-union. The causes of NU were categorized into 4 groups (infection, dead bone/gap, host factors, mechanical).Method100 consecutive patients who had surgery for long bone non-union were analysed. Information was obtained from the patient clinic visits, notes, radiographs and laboratory results. The cause(s) of the non-union were identified, recorded and divided into 4 groups; host, mechanical, dead bone/gap at NU site and infection.ResultsThe mean age at time of injury was 41....