What Is A Bone Graft?

A bone graft is a piece of bone, either from a natural or artificial source, which is used to replace missing bone or damaged bone that cannot heal properly. A bone graft is used in spinal fusion surgeries to induce new bone growth so that a solid segment of bone can form. A graft does increase the risks of fusion surgery because there is always a chance that your body will reject the new bone, a condition called graft rejection.

Bone Graft Varieties

There are several different types of bone grafts available to spinal fusion patients, including:

• Allograft – Bone harvested from an individual (the donor) who is not the patient receiving the graft (the recipient). Allografts are generally obtained from cadavers, whose bone matter is stored in bone banks.
• Autograft – A bone graft where the donor and the recipient are the same person. Usually, an autograft for spinal fusion is harvested from the patient’s iliac crest.
• BMP (Bone morphogenetic protein) – A growth factor protein that induces the formation of new bone. BMP has only been approved by the FDA for use in anterior lumbar interbody fusions (ALIF).
• Artificial graft – An artificial bone graft can be produced from calcium phosphates.

Minimally Invasive Alternatives

Any transplanted bone, even in the case of an autograft, runs the risk of rejection by the body, a factor which greatly increases the chances of failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS). If you feel that the risks and possible complications of highly invasive fusion surgery are not for you, consider contacting Laser Spine Institute. We offer a variety of minimally invasive procedures that may be able to help you rediscover your life without back and neck pain. Our safe, effective procedures do not require grafting, hospitalization, or general anesthesia. Request your complimentary MRI or CT scan review today.