Early bone graft donor site morbidities; anterior superior iliac crest versus proximal tibia.

Purpose: Autogenous bone grafting is a widely used technique in orthopaedic and reconstructive surgeries. The anterior superior iliac crest (AIC) and proximal tibia (PT) are common sources for bone grafts. While, AIC is the gold standard, PT is popular for lower extremity procedures due to its proximity. The research investigates early complications associated with these donor sites in a tertiary orthopaedic centre in Nigeria.

Methods: This randomized controlled study was conducted from July 2020 to December 2021. It includes 66 patients randomized into AIC and PT groups. Pain score analysis and the incidence of surgical site infections were compared between both groups.

Results: There was no statistical difference in the incidence of surgical site infections (SSI) in both groups. The study also reveals that patients in the AIC group experienced more significant pain in the immediate postoperative period and up to two weeks after surgery, with the severity particularly pronounced on the first postoperative day. (p < 0.001).

C conclusions: The PT had less pain severity than the AIC bone graft donor sites. The authors recommend that surgeons consider PT if bone grafting is required.