[Nonunion after distal radius fracture: A review].

Nonunion after distal radius fracture is rare, serious and unpredictable. The preferred treatment is resection of the nonunion zone followed by open reduction and internal fixation with autologous iliac crest bone graft. When the distal fragment is less than 5mm high, a dorsal plate that bridges the radiocarpal joint is recommended. In patients with low functional demands, radiocarpal fusion is a logical choice. The bone healing rate is 58% and could be improved by using a vascular graft. Bone healing is not synonymous with good clinical outcomes. Nonunion after distal radius fracture is a serious problem and the functional prognosis is doubtful.