Bone grafting in rearfoot surgery

Bone grafting, especially in rearfoot surgery, is occasionally required. Two main morphologic types of bone may be grafted, namely cortical and cancellous. Each type of bone has its unique characteristics, which, when used properly, will ensure a good surgical result. Other factors also play an important role in decision making when using bone grafts. These factors include the characteristics of the host and site into which the graft will be placed, the fixation of the bone graft site, the metabolic state of the host, and the function of the graft. If careful surgical planning is exercised, a successful surgical result can be expected.