Treatment Strategy of Infected Nonunion

ABSTRACT

The management of infected nonunion is based on a detailed evaluation of patients, the involved bone and soft tissues, stability of fixation, and type of bacterial pathogens. Preoperative surgical planning and strategies for each step is mandatory for the successful treatment of infected nonunion. The radical debridement of infected tissues, including the unstable implant, is one of the most important procedures. Adequate soft tissue coverage should be considered for the appropriate management of infection; a reconstructive procedure and stable skeletal stabilization by internal or external fixation is also necessary later. A restoration of bone defects and bony union can be accomplished with bone grafting, distraction osteogenesis, vascularized fibular grafting, and induced membrane technique.