Bone grafting is a medical treatment that can transform lives by restoring function and appearance to damaged bones or joints. Utilized to mend bones affected by trauma or enhance growth around implanted devices such as joint replacements, bone grafting is an intricate process that requires utmost precision and care.

In the context of bone grafting, the bone can be sourced from the patient's body, a donor, or be synthesized. If the body accepts the bone graft, it provides a scaffold for new bone growth.

There are two main variations of bone grafts:

• An allograft, derived from a deceased donor, cleaned and preserved in a tissue bank.
• An autograft, taken from a bone inside the patient's body, including ribs, hips, pelvis, or wrist.

The chosen graft depends on the specific injury or reconstruction needed. Allografts are frequently used in hip, knee, or arm and leg bone reconstruction. Benefits include no need for additional surgery to acquire the bone, reducing the risk of infection.

Why Bone Grafting Is Performed at Our Ocean Drive Dental Facility

At our state-of-the-art facility located on Ocean Drive, oceanfront in Hollywood, bone grafting is performed for a myriad of reasons such as injury, disease, and innovative dental procedures. Four principal reasons for bone grafting include:

• Healing complex fractures or those resistant to initial treatment.
• Fusing bones across a diseased joint, commonly in the spine.
• Regenerating bone lost due to disease, infection, or injury.
• Facilitating healing around surgically implanted devices like joint replacements, plates, or screws.

The Risks of a Bone Graft

Though performed with exceptional care under the hands of Dr. Dmitry Gorbatov, with over 30 years of experience, bone grafts carry certain risks like any surgical procedure. These risks include:

• pain
• swelling
• nerve damage
• bone graft rejection
• inflammation
• reabsorption of the graft

Consultation with Dr. Gorbatov allows for a thorough discussion of these risks and tailored advice to minimize them.

How to Prepare for Bone Grafting

Preparation is key to a successful bone grafting procedure. A comprehensive medical history and physical examination will be conducted. Be prepared to discuss medications, supplements, or over-the-counter drugs you are taking.

Fasting before surgery is generally required to avert complications during anesthesia.

Complete pre-surgery instructions will be provided, emphasizing the importance of strict adherence for optimal results.

How a Bone Graft Is Performed

The type of bone graft will be decided prior to surgery, and general anesthesia will ensure a peaceful experience. An anesthesiologist will closely monitor the process.

The surgeon will shape the bone to fit the grafting area, securing it with:

• pins
• plates
• screws
• wires
• cables

Once securely positioned, the incision will be closed, bandaged, and possibly supported with a cast or splint.

After Bone Grafting

Recovery varies, ranging from two weeks to over a year. Vigorous physical activity may be restricted as advised by your surgeon.

Post-operative care is crucial. This includes icing, elevation, controlled exercise of unaffected muscles, maintaining a nutritious diet, and considering cessation of smoking, as it can hinder bone healing.

For further details or to explore our world-class cosmetic dental services, kindly contact Gorbatov Dentistry. Let us help you radiate confidence through enhanced wellbeing and appearance.