What is a common complication of untreated fractures?

Untreated fractures can lead to nonunion or malunion of the bone, which are significant complications. Nonunion occurs when a fractured bone fails to heal properly, leaving the bones separated and not connecting as they should. Malunion refers to a scenario where the bones do heal, but they do so in an improper alignment, which can lead to functional impairment, pain, and further complications.

The healing process of a fracture depends on several factors, including the type of fracture, the patient's age, overall health, and treatment provided. If a fracture is not properly immobilized or managed, the biological process of bone healing can be disrupted, resulting in these complications. Both nonunion and malunion can necessitate additional treatments, such as surgery, to correct the alignment or attempt to stimulate healing.

Other complications related to fractures may exist, such as infections or excessive bleeding, particularly in open fractures, but these are less common with untreated fractures. Shortness of breath is generally unrelated to fractures and more associated with other medical conditions. Understanding the implications of nonunion and malunion emphasizes the importance of prompt and appropriate medical treatment for fractures.