Allograft bone for arthrodesis and repair of skeletal hand problems

Banked freeze-dried allograft bone was used in 16 patients who underwent three types of wrist operation. Subjective, objective, roentgenographic and economic end-result evaluations were satisfactory. The mean time to union was 12.4 weeks, and the complication rate was low. Allograft bone compares favourably with autografts and avoids donor site morbidity, as well as the need for general anaesthesia.