Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that is meant to fix bone and joint issues. If you have suffered trauma, a bone graft may fill the area where there is a fracture or bone loss. During a bone graft, your doctor may use a bone from your body or a donor. Others may use synthetic bones. If accepted by the body, it provides a framework for a new bone to grow. Monterey has plenty of surgeons and you can easily get Monterey bone grafting.
Reasons for Performing Bone Grafting
There are lots of reasons why you may need to perform bone grafting. The main ones include:
- If you have complex or multiple fractures that fail to heal after treatment
- When you need help healing your bone around screws, plates, and other surgically implanted devices
- When you need help for bone loss due to infection, injury, or disease
Understanding the Process of Bone Grafting
The details of your bone grafting surgery vary depending on your specific circumstances. If you are curious about your specific situation, ask your surgeon about it. Some of the most basic things to expect include:
- You will receive anesthesia to ensure that you do not experience any pain or discomfort
- The doctor will monitor your vitals including your blood pressure and heart rate
- They will clean the affected area and make a cut through the muscles around the bone that will be receiving the graft
- Your surgeon may need to make another cut to harvest your bone graft. It may be from your ribs, hip bone, or leg bone. They harvest bone grafts using special tools
- The bone graft is inserted between the two bones that should grow together. They may secure it using special screws
- After the procedure, your surgeon will close the layers of skin and muscles around your treated bone
The Risk Associated with Bone Graft
Like all surgical procedures, bone grafting has its risks. They include infection, bleeding, and a negative reaction to anesthesia. Other risks include:
- Pain and swelling
- Inflammation
- Rejection of the graft
- Reabsorption of the graft
- Nerve injury
What Happens After Bone Grafting?
Your surgeon will let you know what you need to do after the procedure. It is normal to experience some pain and discomfort, but they may prescribe pain medication.
You may need some imaging to be sure that the surgery was successful. Some patients can go back home on the same day. You can get back to your regular diet in a few days.
Your surgeon will suggest that you avoid strenuous activities or putting weight on the treated area. You may require physical therapy to improve the flexibility of your muscles and restore strength. They may suggest that you start taking medication to prevent blood clots. Do not take over the counter medication as they may be bad for your health. Increase your intake of calcium and vitamin D as they promote the healing of your bones.
If you have any questions about bone grafting and what it entails, consider seeking help from your doctor.