Which of the following best describes delayed union of a fracture?
- A Failure of union after twice the expected time with absent bridging callus
- B Fracture healed in a non-anatomical position
- C Union taking longer than expected for that fracture but still progressing ✓
- D Fracture healed with obliteration of medullary canal
Correct answer: C. Union taking longer than expected for that fracture but still progressing
Explanation
Delayed union means the fracture is taking longer than the expected time to heal but union is still occurring — it represents a slowing, not cessation, of the healing process. Non-union, by contrast, is defined when healing has completely ceased, typically after twice the expected healing time with no radiological evidence of progress. Malunion refers to union in an unsatisfactory position.
Reference: Maheshwari Essential Orthopaedics, 6th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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