[Posterior iliac donor sites. Should they be considered more often?]

Spongy bone grafts are characterised by their resistance to infection and their great osteogenic potential. These qualities are valuable in facio-maxillary surgery. The anterior superior iliac crest, the usual donor site for cortico-spongy bone grafts is unsuitable for the removal of large quantities of spongy bone. The posterior iliac crest, which is used by orthopaedic surgeons, is a rich donor site for spongy bone, which is not generally used by facio-maxillary surgeons. The abundance and quality of the bone obtained, the simplicity of the postoperative course and the relative absence of pain of this site make it a good indication. The change in the operative position should not constitute an obstacle to its use.