Endoscopically assisted allogeneic bone grafting for atrophic nonunion of femur and tibia

Abstract Background The nonunion rate for all fractures is about 5–10%. The treatment of nonunion is based on the biologic and mechanical factors contributing to the cause of the nonunion. Debridement and bone grafting are the standard procedures used to treat nonunion of fractures. Purpose We evaluated the results of endoscopically assisted allogeneic bone grafting performed to treat the nonunion of tibial and femoral fractures. Methods Between May 2006 and January 2011, eight patients (two men and six women) with tibial or femoral fracture nonunion were enrolled into our study. The average age of the patients was 35.4 years (range, 24–56 years). All patients underwent endoscopically assisted allogeneic bone graft implantation. We recorded the union status, clinical symptoms, and complications in all patients. Results The average time from the fracture to surgery was 14.4 months (range, 9–22 months). The average follow-up period was 19.1 months (range, 9–28 months). Seven patients achieved bone union and only one patient required additional surgery. The average time between surgery and bone union was 6.4 months (range, 4–8 months). No major complications were reported. Conclusion Endoscopically assisted allogeneic bone grafting is a less invasive and effective treatment for atrophic nonunion of fractures.