Efficacy of allogenic bone implants in a series of consecutive elective foot procedures

To show the efficacy of an allogenic bone graft in elective foot surgery, the authors report on 39 consecutive procedures in which allograft was implanted in 26 patients during a 30-month period. These procedures were performed for a variety of conditions, including arthrodesis, segmental lengthening, and treatment of nonunion. Allograft material consisted of freeze-dried tricortical iliac crest or demineralized bone matrix used either alone or as a composite. Allograft incorporation in all surgical procedures was retrospectively analyzed. Of 39 consecutive implant procedures, there were 38 healed sites (97%) and 1 nonunion (3%). After radiographic and clinical evaluation of allograft incorporation, the authors conclude that allogenic bone graft is a viable option for a multitude of foot conditions.