Fracture is not a “mistake” – this is one of the most serious bone injuries in some people it heals properly, in others unfortunately it does not. One of the complications of abnormal union is the pseudoarthrosis. Then, at the point of union, an additional joint is formed between the two pieces of bone that should normally join and fuse together.
Pseudoarthrosis develops even in situations where treatment has been undertaken and the broken bone has been immobilized. It most often occurs with fractures of the femur, tibia, clavicle, humerus and scaphoid. According to statistics, this problem most often affects young men. The formation of a pseudoarthrosis makes it difficult to recover from fractures, so it should be treated promptly.
Symptoms of the formation of a pseudoarthrosis:
- Pathological (incorrect) mobility in the broken place,
- Pain at the fracture site
- restricted movements,
- Increased pain when using/loading the affected limb,
- The broken place is warmer than normal
- Symptoms of infection
- Deformities within the limb, visible to the naked eye.
Pseudoarthrosis is detected first by taking an X-ray 9 months after the injury. Then the image will show abnormal bone union, as well as: osteoporosis, necrosis, irregular bone fragments, closed or open marrow cavity. In addition, the doctor may order a bone scintigraphy, which will show the blood supply to the bones and the places of their breakdown.
Unfortunately, treatment without surgery is rarely effective, which is why it is most often used in the case of small pseudoarthrosis. These types of treatments include:
- Application of the Ilizarov apparatus – they are mainly used in cases of humerus fractures. It enables healing, stimulates bone tissue and allows for a slow correction of the axis of the damaged bone.
- Physical treatments (laser therapy, ultrasound, magnetotherapy, cryotherapy, etc.) – stimulate bone union, reduce pain and improve circulation.
- Adequate diet – that is, eating meals that strengthen bones, primarily: mineral supplements, products rich in protein, vitamin D and calcium, as well as avoiding tea, coffee, spinach and sorrel.
- Bone marrow harvesting procedure – stem cells in the bone marrow are injected into the pseudoarthrosis site to stimulate bone growth.
- Contralateral massage – used in the case of a healthy, symmetrical limb to stimulate its nerve endings and circulation.
If these methods fail, surgery is required to repair the primary bone fusion. After the procedure, rehabilitation is necessary, which is based on treatments and therapeutic exercises. Lifestyle changes, especially if you are overweight or obese, smoking cessation and proper nutrition are also recommended to help your bones regenerate.