Bone tissue continuously renews itself through a constant cycle of repair. When a bone fractures, the tissue repairs itself rapidly. Over time, the fractured bone becomes as strong as the original bone. The stages of bone tissue self-repair are similar to the stages of rebuilding a demolished building.
The first stage is the removal of debris from the demolished building, which is called inflammation. Dead and damaged tissues at the fracture ends are primarily cleaned by cells called macrophages and osteoclasts. This process takes approximately 7 to 14 days. The second stage is the repair phase, which is the rebuilding stage of the building. In this phase, similar to constructing the steel framework of a building, osteoblast cells that form bone tissue create the scaffold that provides connection between the fracture ends; this tissue is soft bone tissue. Cement is needed to strengthen the steel framework. Here, calcium, acting as cement, precipitates into the soft bone tissue. Now the bone has begun to harden. At the end of this phase, the newly formed bone tissue will begin to be visible on X-ray images. The repair duration varies according to the type of fractured bone, the fracture pattern, and the treatment method of the fracture. Now the rough construction of the building is complete. The next stage is to shape the building. This stage is called the remodeling phase. The bone cleans excess bone tissues formed in the fracture area to restore itself to its original state, and creates stronger bone tissue in load-bearing areas. The remodeling phase can last for years.
Bone healing times vary according to the type of bone, the location of the fracture, the severity of the fracture, and the individual’s constitution. The treatments commonly performed for bone fractures and the approximate expected healing times are as follows:
Humerus (upper arm bone) is generally treated with a cast or bandaging, and 90% achieve union with this treatment. Healing time varies between 1.5 to 4 months.
Forearm fracture; while treated with a cast in children up to 14 years of age, it is generally treated with plate and screws in individuals over 14 years old. Healing time varies between 1.5 to 3 months.
Wrist fracture; generally treated with a cast in children and adults. Severe fractures and fractures that cannot be reduced with a cast are treated surgically. Healing time takes approximately 1.5 to 2.5 months.
Hand and finger fractures are generally treated with casts and splints. Fractures involving the joint and fractures that cannot be corrected with a splint are treated surgically. Healing time is between 3 to 6 weeks.
Femur (thigh bone) is frequently treated with intramedullary nails or plates placed inside the bone. Healing time can be between 3 to 8 months.
Tibia (shin bone) is generally treated surgically. Depending on the type of fracture, treatment with a cast is also possible. Healing time takes approximately 3 to 8 months.
Metatarsal bones and toes are mostly treated with a cast. The fracture healing time is between 3 to 8 weeks.
If bone fractures involve the joint, most physicians prefer surgery to preserve joint movement. During the stage of determining the treatment method for the fracture, the orthopedics and traumatology specialist you consult will determine the best method for you. The healing times we mentioned are average durations. These durations vary according to the individual’s constitution, smoking habits, the fracture pattern and location of the bone, and the treatment method performed. It is important for the patient to attend follow-up appointments on time and be monitored with direct X-rays to prevent delays in fracture healing or any complications that may occur and to resolve them as soon as possible.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as an orthopedic and traumatology specialist, for diagnosis and treatment of bone fractures and any medical condition.