Fracture healing

Question 1

Describe the steps in the fracture repair process.

Answer 1

1. Haematoma fills the gap
2. Influx of fibroblasts and inflammatory cells
3. Procallus = organised haematoma
4. Bony callus = ossified procallus, woven bone
5. Remodelling = woven bone converted to lamellar bone

Question 2

What factors can impede the healing of a fracture?

Answer 2

Infection
Foreign body
Inadequate immobilisation
Marked displacement
Systemic factors