It can be somewhat of a relief to survive a serious vehicle crash with “only” broken bones. These aren’t typically life-threatening injuries, and in most cases, bone fractures heal with time.
However, not all fractures (particularly serious fractures to arms and legs) heal correctly. Around 20% turn out to be malunion or nonunion fractures. What are these?
Malunion fractures
A malunion fracture is one where the broken bone doesn’t return to its normal position as it heals. For example, an ankle, knee, elbow or wrist may end up at an abnormal angle and unable to rotate properly.
In some cases, a bone may end up shorter than it was. Obviously, this can be seriously debilitating. Malunion fractures can also be very painful.
Nonunion fractures
A nonunion fracture is one where the bone doesn’t completely heal. In some cases, it doesn’t heal at all. Often, this happens when a person’s body isn’t able to produce the bone tissue that’s needed to repair it. These can cause the same painful complications as malunion fractures and affect mobility even more if they’re in the lower extremities.
What causes these issues?
These issues can be caused by the failure of medical equipment that is used to aid in the repair, such as plates, screws and more. In some cases, it’s possible that the fracture wasn’t treated properly. However, in many cases, a person’s unique ability to repair fractured bones just isn’t up to the task or an infection may affect the healing process. For example, a bone may not be able to regenerate the necessary tissue to heal.
Whatever the cause of a malunion or nonunion fracture, patients often have to endure multiple surgeries. Doctors may even have to do bone grafts.
The good news is that there are more options than ever for helping the healing process along when a person’s body isn’t able to do its share of the work. Of course, this can be very expensive.
While most people who suffer broken bones in a crash or other type of accident don’t end up with malunion or nonunion fractures, the road to healing for any serious fracture can be unpredictable. That’s why it’s crucial not to settle a claim with an at-fault party’s insurer too soon. That can leave you on the hook for medical bills associated with unexpected consequences later. By getting sound legal guidance as early as possible, you can better protect your right to a fair settlement that will cover your expenses and other damages.