In the context of fracture healing, what does the term "union" refer to?

The term "union" in the context of fracture healing specifically refers to the process where the ends of broken bones heal together to form a continuous and stable bone structure. This step is critical in the healing process as it signifies that the body has successfully bridged the fracture gap, allowing for the resumption of normal function without instability at the fracture site. Achieving union means that the structural integrity of the bone has been restored, which is essential for weight-bearing and movement.

Union can be assessed through clinical evaluation and imaging, which demonstrates that the bone ends have adequately healed. This is distinct from other terms related to fracture healing; for example, alignment pertains to how well the fragments are positioned relative to one another, and stabilization involves the initial methods used to manage and secure the fracture after it occurs. Meanwhile, the duration of the healing process can vary widely and is not defined by the term "union." Therefore, understanding that union specifically indicates a successful healing process helps to clarify its importance in orthopedic nursing practice.