Vascular participation in bone healing: Implications related to advancing age and morbidity

Fracture non-union and the related morbidities represent a global health concern. While many factors are necessary for proper bone healing following fracture, the vascular system is requisite. Important considerations include vascular morphology in bone and marrow and the regulation of tissue blood flow. This review discusses the types of fracture management and associated bone repair (i.e., intramembranous vs. endochondral), the phases of bone healing, and the role of the bone vascular network. Finally, fracture healing is considered in the context of advanced age and morbidity.