Trauma

Malunion, Nonunion And Bone Defects in Portland, OR

At Summit Orthopaedics, we specialize in treating malunion, nonunion, and bone defects, offering advanced solutions to correct improperly healed trauma fractures and restore bone integrity. 

Our team of six board-certified orthopedic surgeons has extensive expertise in fracture realignment, bone reconstruction, and trauma care. Dr. Steven Madey and Dr. Britton Frome are fellowship-trained in hand and microvascular surgery, Dr. Corey Vande Zandschulp and Dr. Stephen J. Wallace specialize in orthopedic trauma and complex fracture repair, Dr. Craig Gillis is board-certified in orthopedic surgery with expertise in upper extremity trauma, and Dr. Amer Mirza is board-certified by the AAOS and serves as vice president of the Oregon Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 

With procedures performed at Legacy Emanuel Hospital and the Oregon Surgical Institute, we provide precise, patient-focused care to help restore mobility and function.

What Are Malunion, Nonunion, and Bone Defects?

When a fracture heals improperly or fails to heal, it can lead to serious complications affecting mobility, strength, and overall function. Understanding the differences between malunion, nonunion, and bone defects is essential for seeking the right treatment.

• Malunion occurs when a broken bone heals in an incorrect position, causing misalignment. This can lead to pain, deformity, and reduced function. Malunion often results from inadequate stabilization during healing or premature weight-bearing on the injured limb. In severe cases, corrective surgery may be needed to realign the bone.
• Nonunion is a more severe condition where a fracture fails to heal altogether, even months after the injury. Poor blood supply, infection, or improper stabilization can prevent the bone from forming new tissue. Symptoms include persistent pain, swelling, and instability. Treatment often involves bone grafting or surgical fixation to stimulate proper healing.
• Bone defects refer to missing or severely damaged bone tissue, often caused by trauma, infection, or surgical removal of tumors. Large defects may not heal independently and require advanced reconstruction techniques such as bone grafting or tissue engineering to restore strength and function.

Each of these conditions requires specialized orthopedic care to prevent long-term complications. At Summit Orthopaedics in Portland, OR, we provide expert treatments to restore proper bone healing and improve mobility.

Potential Causes of Malunion, Nonunion, and Bone Defects

Here are some common factors that contribute to these conditions:

• Improper Initial Treatment: Inadequate stabilization or alignment of the fracture during initial treatment can lead to malunion, where the bone heals incorrectly, or nonunion, where the bone fails to heal.
• Infection: An infection at the fracture site can interfere with the healing process, leading to nonunion or the development of bone defects.
• Blood Supply Issues: Adequate blood supply is crucial for bone healing. Compromised blood flow to the bone, often due to trauma or surgical procedures, can prevent normal healing.
• Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and thyroid disorders can impair bone healing and contribute to developing these complications.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Insufficient intake of calcium, vitamin D, and protein can slow bone repair, making fractures more prone to improper healing.
• Mechanical Stress: Excessive or repeated stress on a healing fracture can disrupt the process, leading to improper healing or failure to heal.

Recognizing the Signs

The symptoms of malunion, nonunion, and bone defect can vary but often include:

• Persistent pain at the fracture site
• Swelling and tenderness
• Visible deformity or abnormal movement
• Difficulty in using the affected limb normally

Persistent discomfort or functional limitations after a fracture should be addressed by an orthopedic specialist.

Advanced Treatments for Bone Healing

Our doctors utilize a comprehensive range of treatments tailored to address each patient's unique needs with malunion, nonunion, or bone defects. Our treatment options include:

• Surgical Intervention: For many cases of nonunion and malunion, surgery may be necessary to realign the bone and secure it with internal fixtures, such as rods, plates, or screws. Bone grafting may also be part of the surgical procedure to promote bone growth and healing.
• Bone Stimulation: We employ advanced bone stimulation technologies that use magnetic and ultrasonic waves to stimulate bone growth and healing at the cellular level.
• Custom Orthotics and Bracing: Custom-designed orthotics and braces may stabilize the affected area and relieve pressure to support the healing process.
• Physical Therapy: A tailored physical therapy program is often a critical component of the recovery process, helping to restore strength, flexibility, and functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Malunion or Nonunion Develop Even After Initial Treatment?

Even when a fracture is treated, improper stabilization, infection, or medical conditions can lead to malunion or nonunion. Routine check-ups play an important role in ensuring the fracture heals correctly and minimizing the risk of complications.

Does Nutrition Affect Bone Healing?

Proper nutrition, including adequate calcium, vitamin D, and protein intake, is essential for bone healing. Deficiencies can slow recovery and increase the risk of nonunion.

Are There Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Bone Defects?

While some small defects may heal with bracing or bone stimulation, larger defects often require bone grafting or surgical reconstruction to restore strength and function.

Will I Need Physical Therapy After Treatment?

Most patients benefit from physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and function after treating malunion, nonunion, or bone defects. A customized rehabilitation plan is essential for optimal recovery.

Why Choose Summit Orthopaedics for Malunion, Nonunion, and Bone Defect Treatment?

Summit Orthopaedics specializes in adult orthopedic surgery, offering expert treatment for malunion, nonunion, and bone defects in Lake Oswego and the greater Portland area. 

With a team of six board-certified orthopedic surgeons—Dr. Steven Madey, Dr. Amer Mirza, Dr. Britton Frome, Dr. Corey Vande Zandschulp, Dr. Craig Gillis, and Dr. Stephen J. Wallace—the clinic provides comprehensive care for complex fractures, misaligned bones, and non-healing injuries. The practice is dedicated to improving patient outcomes through advanced surgical techniques, breakthrough technology, and ongoing research. Many procedures are performed at Legacy Emanuel Hospital and the Oregon Surgical Institute, a state-of-the-art facility specializing in orthopedic and joint replacement surgeries. 

For immediate orthopedic care, Summit Orthopaedics also operates Go To Ortho, a walk-in urgent care clinic in Lake Oswego and Beaverton, where patients can receive treatment without a referral. Whether correcting improperly healed fractures, treating nonunion cases, or reconstructing bone defects, Summit Orthopaedics provides the specialized care necessary to restore strength, function, and long-term mobility.

Get Started with Your Recovery in Portland, OR

If you are experiencing complications from a bone injury or a bone defect requiring professional care, don't hesitate to contact us at 503-850-9940. Each of our doctors has earned the coveted distinction of being Portland Monthly Top Docs, one of our area's highest distinctions for physicians. Furthermore, our state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with the latest technologies to treat complex bone conditions effectively.