malunion
Fracture healing in an anatomically incorrect position resulting in deformity or functional impairment.
Full Definition
Malunion occurs when a fractured bone heals in an improper position, resulting in angulation, rotation, shortening, or translation deformities. Unlike nonunion where healing fails to occur, malunion represents successful bone healing but with unsatisfactory alignment. This complication can result from inadequate reduction, loss of reduction during healing, or inappropriate treatment methods. Malunion may cause functional limitations, pain, altered joint mechanics, and cosmetic concerns. Treatment options include corrective osteotomy, hardware revision, or acceptance depending on the degree of deformity and functional impact.
Usage
Usage note: Can be written as 'malunion' or 'mal-union'; former is more common in current literature.
In Context
- "The patient presented with symptomatic malunion requiring corrective osteotomy." — Clinic follow-up note
- "Despite initial acceptable reduction, the fracture healed in malunion." — Case review