Fracture Healing PP

Question 1

Fracture Healing

Answer 1

1. Tissue Destruction and haematoma formation
2. Inflammation and Cellular Proliferation
3. Callus Formation
4. Consolidation
5. Remodelling

Question 2

1. Tissue destruction and haematoma formation

Answer 2

Vessels torn, haematoma round and within fracture, broken ends necrotic (die back 1-2 mm)

Question 3

2. Inflammation and cellular proliferation

Answer 3

• Less than 8 hours: acute inflammatory reaction
• Haematoma is invaded by microphages, osteoclasts (remove dead bone) and osteoblasts (produce bone)
• Fine, new capillaries grow into area

Question 4

3. Callus formation

Answer 4

• Between 2-6 weeks after injury
• Proliferating cells start to form ‘woven’ bone
• Densely mineralised fracture unites

Question 5

4. Consolidation

Answer 5

• Between 6-12 week, ossification occurs: a bony bridge over gap
• The bone starts to regain mechanical strength (very slow process – several months) and can carry normal loads

Question 6

5. Remodelling

Answer 6

• Takes several months/years

- Reshaping continues: alternating bone reabsorption and formation until it resumes normal architecture