Non-union of a midshaft anterior tibial stress fracture: a frequent complication.

We report a case of non-union of a midshaft anterior cortex tibial stress fracture and review the literature concerning this pathological entity. This is a relatively rare clinical form of tibial stress fracture which often results in delayed union, non-union or complete fracture. Initial management is as for a conventional stress fracture, associated in some cases, according to certain authors, with pulsing electromagnetic field physiotherapy. If after 4-6 months no sign of union is present, surgical management is indicated, in the form of excision of the fracture site with or without bone graft.