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o Treatment: Joint preservation techniques, bone grafting, or joint replacement if
severe.

Enhancing Bone Healing

To optimize bone healing and minimize complications, several interventions can be applied:

• Biological Enhancements: Use of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), platelet-rich
plasma (PRP), and autologous bone grafting.
• Electrical Stimulation: Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) and pulsed
electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy have shown promise in accelerating healing.
• Pharmacologic Agents: Parathyroid hormone analogs (e.g., teriparatide) may improve
fracture healing in osteoporotic patients.
• Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy: Early motion and weight-bearing programs can
aid in recovery when clinically appropriate.

Clinical Implications for Orthopaedic Technologists

Orthopaedic technologists must understand the phases of bone healing and factors affecting
recovery to:

• Assist in applying proper immobilization techniques that promote optimal healing.
• Monitor for signs of impaired healing and communicate concerns to the healthcare team.
• Educate patients on lifestyle modifications and post-fracture care to enhance recovery.
• Collaborate with physicians and rehabilitation specialists to ensure appropriate
interventions.

By comprehensively understanding bone healing physiology, orthopaedic technologists can
actively contribute to improving patient outcomes and reducing complications associated with
fractures.

Phases of Bone Healing

1. Inflammatory Phase (0-7 Days)
o Begins immediately after the fracture.
o Hematoma formation occurs, leading to the release of inflammatory mediators
that attract cells necessary for healing.
2. Reparative Phase (1-6 Weeks)
o Soft callus formation occurs as fibroblasts and chondroblasts create a cartilage
matrix.
o Osteoblasts begin depositing new bone, transitioning the callus into a hard callus.
3. Remodeling Phase (6 Weeks – Several Months/Years)
o The hard callus undergoes remodeling to restore normal bone architecture.
o Osteoclasts resorb unnecessary bone, while osteoblasts refine bone structure
according to mechanical stresses.