Iliac crest autogenous bone grafting: donor site complications

Abstract

Autogenous bone grafting is often done in orthopaedic surgery for a variety of conditions. The iliac crest is currently the most common donor site for obtaining autogenous bone graft. We searched the literature to summarize reported complications related to the donation of autogenous bone from the iliac crest. Our review revealed reports of arterial injury, ureteral injury, herniation, chronic pain, nerve injury, infection, fracture, pelvic instability, cosmetic defects, hematoma, and tumor transplantation. Currently, autogenous bone grafting is a necessary part of the treatment of various orthopaedic conditions. Obtaining bone from the iliac crest can be associated with significant morbidity. As bone grafting technology emerges, the known complications of the current standard should be weighed against the risk of alternate therapies.