Healing time of a fracture of the femur
The therapy of choice for femur fractures is usually surgery. However, even after surgical correction and fixation of the fractures, not everything is immediately as it was before. Depending on the type and severity of the fracture and on the age and bone structure of the patient, several weeks to months may pass until complete healing is achieved.
The patient’s cooperation and the occurrence of possible complications also influence the healing time. Ideally, physiotherapeutic exercises and stress should be started as soon as possible after an operation, as long immobilization not only hinders the healing process, but also significantly prolongs it. The training program is planned and controlled by an experienced physiotherapist, so that the bones are not overstrained at any time and their healing process is not hindered.
After about 12 weeks, the previously broken leg should be able to bear weight again. Almost all fractures of the thigh heal completely without residual defects within a period of 3-4 months. However, it can take up to half a year before the fracture is no longer noticeable.
The last question that remains is the material used during surgery. How long should it remain in the bone? If the surgical fixation with an intramedullary nail is successful, some of the cross braces can be removed after 6-12 weeks.
The patient’s own body weight then helps to further stabilize the fracture. Everything else, such as the intramedullary nail itself or plate osteosyntheses, can be removed after about 1.5 to 2 years. However, this fixation material can also remain in the body for the rest of the patient’s life, provided it does not cause any discomfort. Even years after a fracture of the thigh, fixation material can remain in the thigh without any problems.
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