Radial Shockwave Therapy: A Non-Invasive Breakthrough for Nonunion Fractures
Federico M. Graziano1,2*, Tomás A. Michelini1,2
1Medical center Ondas de Choque La Plata, Argentina.
2Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, HIGA San Roque de Gonnet, Argentina.
*Corresponding Author: Federico M. Graziano, Medical center Ondas de Choque La Plata, Argentina.
https://doi.org/10.58624/SVOAOR.2025.05.012
Received: March 07, 2025
Published: May 28, 2025
Citation: Graziano FM, Michelini TA. Radial Shockwave Therapy: A Non-Invasive Breakthrough for Nonunion Fractures. SVOA Orthopaedics 2025, 5:3, 68-76. doi: 10.58624/SVOAOR.2025.05.012
Abstract
Background: Nonunion bone fracture treatment often requires complex surgical procedures, including osteosynthesis material replacement, bone resection and bone grafting, among others. Radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy (rESWT) is emerging as a non-invasive, safe and effective alternative.
Methods: This article reports nonunion bone fracture cases successfully treated with rESWT, demonstrating improvements in bone consolidation, pain reduction and functionality. Ultrasound was used to localize the fracture site and define the treatment area. The protocol consisted of six weekly rESWT sessions. Patients underwent clinical and radiological evaluations at 3, 6, and 9 months post-treatment.
Results: Seventeen patients (9 males, 8 females; age range: 16-65 years) were included. At 9 months post-treatment, 13 patients (76.4%) achieved successful bone healing. The tibia was the most commonly treated site (9/17), with 66.6% of tibia nonunion healing after six sessions. Functional assessment using the Patient-Specific Functional Scale showed an 82% improvement.
Conclusions: Radial ESWT is a safe and effective treatment for both superficial and deep bone fractures. It should be considered by orthopedic surgeons as an early intervention for delayed fracture healing.
Keywords: Bone, Radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy, Fracture, nonunion.