The role of osteomedullography in the management of delayed union and non-union of diaphyseal fractures of the long bones: a preliminary report.

The significance of osteomedullography was studied in 17 patients with diaphyseal fractures of long bones to determine a rational form of treatment for delayed healing and non-union. Positive osteomedullographic signs were noted in 6 cases of delayed healing and negative signs in 11 cases. All the positive cases united by prolonging the period of immobilization in plaster. Seven of the 11 negative cases were treated by bone grafting. Three patients treated by prolonged immobilization in plaster have not shown evidence of union even after a period of 20 weeks. This simple investigation could be useful in avoiding undue loss of time in the management of delayed union and non-union.