Nonunion and Malunion
What are nonunions and malunions?
When a bone fracture does not heal properly, it can lead to nonunion or malunion:
- Nonunion: A fracture that fails to heal after an extended period, usually 6–9 months, despite proper immobilization or treatment.
- Malunion: A fracture that heals in an incorrect position, causing deformity, misalignment, or functional impairment.
Both conditions can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and difficulty performing daily activities if left untreated.
Causes of nonunions and malunions
Several factors can prevent proper bone healing:
- Severe trauma or complex fractures
- Inadequate stabilization after injury
- Poor blood supply to the fractured area
- Infection at the fracture site
- Underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or osteoporosis
- Smoking or poor nutrition, which impair bone healing
Symptoms of nonunion or malunion
Patients with nonunion or malunion may experience:
- Persistent pain at the fracture site
- Visible deformity or abnormal bone alignment
- Instability or difficulty bearing weight
- Limited range of motion in nearby joints
- Swelling or tenderness around the fracture
Diagnosing nonunions and malunions
At Iowa Ortho, our orthopedic specialists use a combination of:
- Physical examinations to assess function and alignment
- X-rays to check bone healing and position
- CT scans or MRI for a detailed evaluation of the bone and surrounding tissues
Treatment options for nonunions and malunions
Treatment depends on the severity, location, and type of fracture, as well as the patient’s overall health.
Non-surgical treatment
In some cases, minor nonunions may heal with:
- Bone stimulation techniques (electrical or ultrasound)
- Bracing or casting to support the bone
- Medications or supplements to improve bone healing
Surgical treatment
Most nonunions and malunions require surgery, which may include:
- Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF): Using plates, screws, or rods to realign and stabilize the bone
- Bone grafting: Adding bone tissue to stimulate healing in nonunion cases
- External fixation or Ilizarov apparatus: For complex fractures, deformities, or limb length adjustments
- Correction of malalignment: Repositioning the bone to restore proper function and appearance
Recovery after treatment
Recovery varies depending on the type of fracture, surgical method, and patient factors:
- Hospitalization may be required for surgical cases
- Physical therapy to regain strength and mobility
- Regular follow-up visits with imaging to ensure proper healing
- Gradual return to daily activities and work
Why choose Iowa Ortho for nonunion and malunion care?
- Fellowship-trained orthopedic trauma surgeons
- Advanced surgical techniques for complex fractures and deformities
- Comprehensive care from diagnosis through rehabilitation
- Personalized treatment plans focused on restoring function and quality of life
Request an appointment
If you are experiencing persistent pain, deformity, or limited mobility after a fracture, Iowa Ortho provides expert care for nonunions and malunions.
Call Iowa Ortho at 515-247-8400 or request an appointment online today.