Type of Surgery
Information
Last updated: 11/24/2009
Most bone grafts are successful in helping the bone defect to heal. The extent of recovery depends on the size of the defect and the condition of the bone surrounding the graft at the time of surgery. Severe defects take some time to heal, and may...
require further attention after the initial graft. Less severe bone defects should heal completely without serious complications. Repeat surgery is sometimes required if the condition recurs or complications develop.
If the bone graft is done on the face or head, the surgeries usually result in a more normal appearance.
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Dental implants have revolutionized the way that dentists replace teeth, but they do require healthy jaw bone in which to anchor. Unfortunately tooth loss causes bone to resorb (atrophy or deteriorate). This video describes the process by which new bone if grafted into the jaw so that dental implants can be installed.
For bone grafting, an incision is made in the donor's hip (A). Pieces of bone are chipped off and removed (B). The bone materials are then transferred to the recipient area, in this case a femur that has been badly broken, to strengthen the bone (C). (Illustration by GGS Inc.)
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Other Information
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that replaces missing bone with material from the patient's own body, an artificial, synthetic, or natural substitute. Bone grafting is used to repair bone fractures that are extremely complex, pose a significant health risk to the patient, or fail to heal properly.
Other Information
Orthopedic complaints are the most common reason to seek medical care.
From: About.com
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