BONE GRAFTS Meaning and
Definition
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Bone grafts are a commonly used surgical procedure in the field of orthopedics and dentistry. It involves the transplantation of healthy bone tissue from one part of the body or a donor source to another location where bone regeneration or repair is needed. This procedure aims to stimulate new bone growth, enhance bone healing, and restore structural support to areas affected by bone loss or damage.
Bone grafts can be obtained from various sources, including autografts, allografts, and synthetic substitutes. Autografts refer to bone taken from the patient's own body, often from a different site within the same individual. Allografts involve using bone from a donor, which can be either cadaveric bone or donated bone from living individuals. Synthetic substitutes are man-made materials designed to mimic the properties of natural bone.
The process of bone grafting typically begins with the removal of any infected or damaged bone tissue from the recipient site. The healthy bone graft is then carefully shaped and secured into place, either through screws, wires, or plates, to provide stability and encourage proper healing. Over time, the transplanted bone graft acts as a scaffold, promoting the ingrowth of new blood vessels, bone cells, and minerals to create new bone tissue.
Bone grafts are often used in various reconstructive procedures, such as treating fractures, correcting deformities, fusing joints, and rebuilding bone structure. They play a crucial role in restoring functionality, relieving pain, and improving the overall quality of life of patients with bone deficiencies or injuries.
Etymology of BONE GRAFTS
The etymology of the term "bone grafts" can be traced back to the Old English word "bān" meaning "bone", and the Middle English word "graft" meaning "a transplanted or implanted piece". The word "graft" is derived from the Old Norse word "grǫpt" which means "a cutting" or "a piece cut off". Hence, "bone grafts" refer to the surgical procedure of transplanting or implanting pieces of bone to replace or repair damaged or missing bone tissue.
