Fractures are generally not considered one of the more serious types of injuries a person can suffer as a result of a vehicle crash. After all, bones heal. Unfortunately, however, not all fractures heal properly – especially serious fractures to the extremities. That’s not always the fault of the doctors and other medical professionals who treat a fracture.
As many as 20% of breaks end up being either malunion or nonunion fractures. Let’s take a brief look at both of these, why they can occur and what is involved in treating these serious complications.
What is a malunion fracture?
As the name indicates, a malunion fracture is when a broken bone doesn’t heal in its normal position – for example, at an abnormal angle. This can be particularly debilitating when it involves an ankle, knee or wrist that needs to turn and bend. In addition to affecting a person’s mobility, malunion fractures are often painful. They can even cause one arm or leg to be shorter than the other.
What is a nonunion fracture?
A nonunion fracture is one that doesn’t fully heal. Some nonunion fractures don’t heal at all – at least within the expected period. This usually occurs if someone is unable to produce the necessary bone tissue to repair the break. These can cause the same complications as malunion fractures – and even more serious ones.
What kind of treatment may be necessary?
Both types of complications often require one or more orthopedic surgeries. This can involve plates and even bone grafts. These can help do the work that a person’s body wasn’t able to do on its own to contribute to healing the fracture
Fractures, like any kind of injury, can inspire unexpected complications. That’s one important reason why it’s never wise to agree to the first settlement amount offered by an at-fault party’s insurer. A quick settlement can help pay medical bills and other immediate financial losses. However, it can leave a victim unable to collect the full amount they need for long-term expenses and care if complications arise. That’s one reason why having sound legal guidance can be critical to getting fair compensation overall in the wake of an injurious crash.