Bone Transplantation
What is a bone transplant and how does it work?
A bone transplant is a surgical technique that is used to treat bone or joint issues. Bone grafting, or the transplantation of bone tissue, is useful for repairing broken bones or problematic joints. It can also be used to develop bone around an implanted device, such as a complete knee replacement, if bone loss or a fracture has occurred. A bone transplant can assist fill up gaps where bone is missing or offer structural support.
A bone transplant might be made completely of synthetic material or it can originate from your body or a donor. If the body accepts it, it can create a foundation for new, live bone to develop.
Bone grafts come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
The following are the two most frequent forms of bone grafts:
Allografts are frequently utilized in the restoration of the hip, knee, and long bones. Arms and legs are examples of long bones. The benefit is that no extra surgery is required to get the bone. It also reduces the risk of infection by obviating the need for additional incisions or surgery.
Allograft bone transplants use bone that has no living cells to reduce the chance of rejection. There is no requirement to match blood types between the donor and the receiver since the transplanted bone does not contain live marrow.
Why is bone grafting done?
Bone grafting is used to treat a variety of conditions, including injury and illness. Bone transplants are utilized for four major reasons:
In the case of many or complicated fractures, or those that do not heal well after first therapy, a bone graft may be utilized.
Fusion is a procedure that allows two bones to heal together across a damaged joint. The spine is the most common site for fusion.
Bone regeneration is utilized to replace bone that has been lost due to illness, infection, or injury. Small bits of bone in bone cavities or huge portions of bones can be used in its way.
A graft can aid bone healing around medically implanted devices such as joint replacements, plates, and screws.
How to get ready for a bone graft
Before your operation, your doctor will conduct a thorough medical history and physical examination. Make sure your doctor is aware of any medicines, OTC drugs, or supplements you're using. Fasting will almost certainly be necessary before to surgery. This is done to avoid difficulties while you're unconscious. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on what to do in the days leading up to your surgery and on the day of the procedure. It's critical that you follow the directions.
How is a bone transplant done?
Before your operation, your doctor will determine which sort of bone graft to utilize. You'll be put under general anesthesia, which will put you to sleep for the duration of the procedure. The anesthetic and your recovery will be monitored by an anesthesiologist.
Above the area where the transplant is needed, your surgeon will create an incision in the skin. The donated bone will then be shaped to fit the location. Your surgeon will seal the incision or wound with stitches and bandage the wound after the graft is securely in place. The bone may be supported by a cast or splint while it heals. Often, no casting or splint is required.
The length of time it takes for bone transplants to heal is determined by the size of the graft and other factors. Recovery might take anything from two weeks to over a year in most cases. For as long as your surgeon recommends, you should avoid intense physical exercise.