The term “consolidation of a fracture” refers to the fusion of bone fragments with the formation of first primary and then secondary callus. Thus,

What is a consolidated fracture

The term “consolidation of a fracture” refers to the fusion of bone fragments with the formation of first primary and then secondary callus. Thus, a consolidated fracture is a complete restoration of the integrity of the bone after its fracture.

The process of consolidation is very complex and lengthy, it involves an increase in the number of cells capable of synthesizing bone and connective tissue – osteoblasts and fibroblasts, respectively. Due to the release of special substances by these cells, all layers of the bone are formed and its integrity is restored.

The timing of fracture consolidation differs depending on its location:

• the ribs, metacarpal bones and phalanges of the fingers fuse most quickly – within three weeks;
• with a clavicle fracture, the consolidation process takes about 4 weeks;
• for the wrist, tarsus and metatarsus, bones of the forearm – 2.5 months;
• for lower leg, shoulder and thigh – 3-4 months;
• the longest time to consolidate is a femoral neck fracture – about six months.

In addition, for several years in the field of callus formation, the active activity of osteoclasts continues – cells capable of resolving bone tissue, they eliminate excess callus and bone fragments.