What is a Pseudoarthrosis?

Description of the condition

A false joint, or pseudoarthrosis, is a condition in which bones do not fuse together after a fracture or other injury. This results in the formation of a false joint, which can cause painful symptoms and limit movement.

Classification

Pseudoarthrosis can be congenital or acquired. Acquired pseudoarthrosis is classified as distal (lower) or proximal (upper), depending on the location.

Symptoms

Symptoms of pseudoarthrosis include pain in the area of the injury, absence or limitation of movement in the joint, swelling, and deformity.

Causes

Pseudoarthrosis can be caused by improper bone healing after a fracture, inadequate blood supply to tissues, infection, or incorrect treatment of the injury.

Diagnosis

X-rays, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to diagnose pseudoarthrosis.

Treatment

Treatment of pseudoarthrosis may include wearing fixation devices, rehabilitation, physiotherapy, as well as surgical intervention to correct the pseudoarthrosis.

Prevention

Prevention of pseudoarthrosis includes proper treatment of fractures, monitoring of bone marrow and blood supply, and prevention of infections in the area of the injury.

Doctor

An orthopedic surgeon treats pseudoarthrosis. In some cases, consultation with other specialists such as a surgeon, rehabilitologist, or physiotherapist may be required.