Medium term donor-site morbidity after tricortical iliac crest graft harvesting for foot and ankle indications

Abstract

Purpose of the study

The retrospective study aimed at assessment of donor site morbidity of tricortical iliac crest graft harvest for foot and ankle indications in a single-surgeon, single-technique group of patients.

Materials and methods

Consecutive patients undergoing procedures in foot and ankle requiring grafting from iliac crest were contacted with telephoned questionnaire within a second year post surgery.

Results

Among the group of 37 patients, 100% follow-up has been achieved. One patient reported continued pain at the donor site, one case of hyperesthesia around the approach and one case of hypoesthesia of lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh were reported.

Discussion

Data regarding complications of tricortical bone graft harvest from iliac crest is varied. Long term pain has been reported in up to 29% of cases. Variability of information negatively influences informed consent process. We report the results of homogeneous cohort of patients operated for foot and ankle indications.

Conclusion

Harvesting of tricortical anterior iliac graft for foot and ankle indications carries minimal risk of long term pain at the donor site.