Prior to Procedure

Your doctor will likely do the following:

• Physical exam
• X-rays of the bone involved

Leading up to your procedure:

• Talk to your doctor about your medications. You may be asked to stop taking some medicationss up to 1 week before the procedure.

• Review with your doctor any herbs or supplements that you take. You may be asked to stop taking some.
• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the day before your surgery, unless told otherwise by your doctor.
• Arrange for help at home after returning from the hospital.

Anesthesia

Depending on the procedure, you may receive:

• General anesthesia —You will be asleep.
• Local anesthesia—The area will be numbed.

Description of the Procedure

The method of treatment depends on the type and location of the bone injury or defect and the type of graft you will be receiving.

Most bone graft procedures use your own bone. The bone is often taken from the iliac crest. This is the bone at your hip, about where you would wear a belt. An incision is made over the part of the bone that will be removed. A special bone chisel will remove the piece of bone. This incision is then closed.

An incision will be made in the skin covering the area in need of repair. Any scar or dead tissue will be removed from the area. Your bone will then be reconstructed with the graft. Plates and screws may be used during the procedure to immobilize the bone. A cast or brace may be needed after the procedure.

After Procedure

An x-ray may be taken to make sure the bone is in the correct position.

How Long Will It Take?

The length of your surgery will depend on the repair needed.

How Much Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia prevents pain during the procedure. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medication.

Average Hospital Stay

Your stay in the hospital will depend on the extent of surgery and your progress.

Post-procedure Care

During your stay, the hospital staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection such as:

• Washing their hands
• Wearing gloves or masks
• Keeping your incisions covered

There are also steps you can take to reduce your chances of infection such as:

• Washing your hands often and reminding visitors and healthcare providers to do the same
• Reminding your healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks
• Not allowing others to touch your incisions

Care depends on the procedure and location of the bone graft:

• Do not smoke. Smoking can delay bone healing.
• Some grafts can fail. You doctor will track progress with x-rays.