ABSTRACT
Delayed union represents a slower healing period for a given fracture than expected and can be confirmed both clinically and radiologically. The rate of fracture healing is dependent on patient and fracture variables, including the severity of the initial injury, soft tissue damage, location, displacement, comminution, local blood supply, corticosteroids, diabetes, nutritional status, systemic disease and age. Pathological, open and segmental fractures have slower healing rates. Primary ORIF disturbs the soft tissues and prolongs the healing time, as direct bone healing occurs after rigid fixation and is slower than indirect bone healing with closed treatment.
