When the healing process of a fractured bone fails owing to inadequate immobilization, failed surgical intervention, insufficient biological response or infection, the outcome after a prolonged period of no healing is defined as non-union. Non-union represents a chronic medical condition not only affecting function but also potentially impacting the individual’s psychosocial and economic well-being. | Non-union bone fractures. Nat Rev Dis Primers 7, 58 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41572-021-00297-8