V.

CONCLUSION:
The inflammatory phase of fracture healing not only initiates but also directs downstream processes of bone repair, and disruption of this phase by systemic inflammation or by local hyper inflammation has been shown to impair fracture healing. The mechanism through which systemic inflammation impairs fracture healing, however, remains unknown. Intensive research is currently focused on the treatment of fractures by the application of cells, scaffolds, growth factors or by development and design of new implants. Today's knowledge on the effect of several drugs on bone healing is characterized by inconclusive and controversial results from several animal models, together with absence of univocal clinical data. It is clear, however, that some pharmacological agents impair the bone healing process, and small changes in medication of patients can contribute to a better outcome. This should be borne in mind by all physicians involved in the treatment of bone disorders, whether dealing with fractures or degenerative diseases. Further research in the foreseeable future may allow clinicians to understand better the inhibitory effect of several pharmacological agents on the fracture healing process and the mechanisms governing bone repair and regeneration.