Fracture healing in the presence of chronic hypoxia

Recent studies have demonstrated that fracture healing normally takes place under hypoxic conditions. The present study evaluated the effect of a state of chronic systemic hypoxia on fracture healing in dogs. A significant delay in fracture healing was demonstrated in the hypoxic animals roentgenographically, histologically, and by strength-testing criteria. A further reduction in the available oxygen supply below that present during normal repair had an adverse effect on fracture healing.