Non-Union Fractures

Non-union of bone fractures occurs when instead of a growth of osteocytes and osteoblasts, a cartiledge-like link forms between the fractured bone ends.

To heal a non-union surgically, the cartilage needs to be removed and the fracture refreshed by working with a scalpel or rasp. It may also be necessary to insert a bone graft.

It has been shown by numerous clinicians in many journal articles, starting in Germany in 1991, that applying pulses of sonic energy to the fracture site causes micro fractures of the bone which encourages the production of osteocytes and osteoblasts. This leads to normal healing in a significant number of patients. Where there is no success the surgical option may still be considered.