Morbidity associated with anterior iliac crest bone graft

Objective: The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the morbidity of the harvest of the anterior iliac bone graft and the overall satisfaction rates in a group of patients who underwent harvesting of iliac crest bone graft. Patients and Methods: Patients who underwent iliac crest bone graft procedures from January 2002 to August 2009 were recalled and invited to answer a questionnaire about postoperative pain, sensory disturbance, functional limitations, and cosmetic appearance. Results: A total of 61 patients were included in this retrospective study. Seventeen patients (28%) reported postoperative pain. A patient reported an intraoperative hip fracture. Sensory disturbances were reported by 3 patients. Conclusions: Anterior iliac crest can still be considered a favorable donor site for preprosthetic and cleft surgery. Given its relatively low morbidity rate, early ambulation, and hospital discharge, anterior iliac crest still remains the donor site of choice according to the authors.