What are the treatment options for non-unions?

The orthopaedic surgeon can choose from a wide range of both surgery and non-surgery methods.

In initial cases, physical treatments such as stimulation with electromagnets, shock waves and low intensity ultrasound can be used. In more severe cases, it is often necessary to increase mechanical stability of the implant by replacing the existing synthesis devices (nails, plates, external fixation) or applying new ones and possibly using autologous or homologous bone grafts or bone replacements.

The application of growth factors such as morphogenetic bone proteins and the implantation of mesenchymal stromal cells are other devices that the Orthopaedic surgeon can use in these situations. Traditional techniques such as the Ilizarov external fixator apparatus (bone transport technique) or vascularised fibular transplant are still used in critical situations with severe bone loss.

In even more severe situations where the possibility of bone regeneration is greatly reduced, implantation of large resection prostheses may be indicated in order to resolve the problem and restore functionality to the operated limb.