What is the risk associated with delayed union in bone fractures?

Delayed union in bone fractures is characterized by the slow or inadequate healing of the fracture, which means that the bone has not stabilized or healed in the expected time frame. The primary risk associated with delayed union is indeed related to resistance to healing. When a fracture does not heal properly, various factors can contribute to this resistance, including inadequate blood supply, infection, or mechanical instability at the fracture site.

As a result, the longer the healing takes, the higher the risk for complications, such as nonunion (where the bone fails to heal) or malunion (where the bone heals incorrectly). This prolonged healing process can lead to chronic pain, decreased functionality, and increased need for surgical intervention if conservative measures fail.

In contrast, options like increased mobility or improved bone strength do not align with the concept of delayed union; in fact, mobility typically decreases due to pain and lack of stability. Shorter recovery time also contradicts the nature of delayed union, as it indicates longer recovery durations rather than shorter ones.