Harvesting Iliac Crest Bone Block Grafts and Cancellous Bone Graft

The harvesting of an iliac crest bone graft is a well-established procedure that has proven successful in various clinical scenarios and is particularly prevalent in orthopaedic and trauma surgery. It serves as a means to obtain autologous bone material for bone grafting procedures, especially in cases of bone defects, fractures with significant bone involvement or to support spinal fusions. The iliac crest bone graft offers an ideal source of regenerative bone material due to its structural properties, facilitating effective bone healing and fusion. This chapter describes the surgical technique of iliac crest bone graft harvesting, where bone is obtained through a small incision in the iliac crest. The surgical approach and its respective advantages and disadvantages are explained. Additionally, potential complications and risks associated with the procedure are listed.