Abstract
It is known that the Salter-Harris type I and II fractures of the distal tibial epiphysis usually
For resolving problems of delayed union and non-union of long bones, many efforts was made
such as autogenous graft, allogenic or artificial bone graft and electrical stimulation, but there
were many complications and not sufncient fracture healing process. The purpose of this study
was to investigate the effect of autograft with bone marrow on the repair or bone formation of
delayed union by the serial radiogram and clinical examination. We evaluated thirty nine
patients which had been treated for long bone fracture, to whom bone marrow injection was
made between 3 months and 13 months after adequate fixation(average.4.8months). After bone
marrow injection, clinical follow up period was from 15 months to 35 months(average
26.7months). The age distribution was from 18 years to 84 years(average 42). A total of 100-
150cc of marrow was injected at the nonunion site immediately after aspiration under the C-arm.
Of 39 cases, there were improved bone healing process of 30 cases(77%) by radiographically
and clinically, Of 9 cases without improvement, 5 cases were due to loosening of external
fixator, 2 cases was due to chronic osteomyelitis and other 2 cases was unknown origin. No
serious complications were observed other than no improvement. Although percutaneous bone
marrow injection does not promote healing more rapidly than would standard operative bone
grafting, it has many distinct advantages over the latter. It is safe, easy, and time saving. It is
economical and involves minimal trauma. It can be done under local anesthesia and avoids the
risks of general anesthesia, infection and surgery. It can be done in cases which are not fit for
open bone grafting because of poor condition of the skin.