pseudarthrosis

Introduction

A false joint.

Etiology

• a fracture that has not united in 9 months & has little or no chance of ever uniting without intervention
• developmental anomaly
• arthrodesis [ICD10]
• risk factors
  • old age
  • poor nutritional statuss
  • alcohol & tabacco
  • hyperparathyroidism
• contributing factors
  • soft tissue interposition
  • bone loss at the fracture
  • infection
  • loss of blood supply
    • damage to surrounding muscles

Management

• electrical stimulation
• bone grafting
• open reduction/internal fixation