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Bone graft
Definition:
Surgery to place new bone into spaces between or around broken bone (fractures) or holes (defects) in bone. New bone to be grafted around fractures or defects can be taken from the patient's own healthy bone (hip bone "iliac crest" or ribs) or from frozen, donated bone.

Description:

An incision is made over the bone defect and the bone graft is shaped and inserted into and around the defect. The graft is held in place with pins, plates, or screws. The incisions are stitched closed. A splint or cast is usually used to prevent injury or movement while healing.
Indications:
Bone grafts are used for:
  • bone breaks (fractures) with bone loss
  • repair of bone that has not healed
  • treatment of joints to prevent movement (fusion)
Risks:
Risks for any anesthesia are:Risks for any surgery are:
Expectations after surgery:
Most bone grafts are successful in helping the bone defect to heal with little risk of graft rejection.
Convalescence:
Depends on the injury or defect being repaired. Can vary from 1 to 10 days. Vigorous exercise may be restricted for up to 3 months.
Review Date: 5/24/2001
Reviewed By: Kevin B. Freedman, M.D., Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush-Presbyterian Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Health Network.
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