Ilizarov treatment for aseptic delayed union or non-union after reamed intramedullary nailing of the femur.

The authors reviewed eight patients treated with an Ilizarov frame for a non-infected delayed union or non-union after reamed intramedullary nailing of the femoral diaphysis. The hardware was completely removed in all cases but two, in which the distal fragment of a broken nail was left in situ. In five cases without shortening, progressive compression was applied. In the other three patients a simultaneous lengthening was performed using an additional percutaneous osteotomy. All patients achieved a good consolidation, with an average time to healing of 32 weeks and restoration of length and alignment if necessary. Bone grafting was never required, illustrating the sufficient biological potential for repair in non-infected femoral non-union.