An allograft is transplantable tissue that comes from a human donor. This tissue is processed and sterilized, then used in grafting surgeries to repair damaged bones or ligaments.

Conversely, an autograft is tissue which is harvested from the patient’s own body and then transplanted into the area needing repair. A surgery utilizing an allograft is much faster and safer than using an autograft from the patient’s own body. Autograft surgery actually involves two procedures – harvesting a piece of your own tendon or bone from one area then transplanting it into another area. This means you will be under anesthesia for a longer period of time, which is a greater risk to you. Additionally, when autografting, there are possible risks associated with the donor site as well as the transplant site. The donor site may result in weakness (because a small portion of your tissue has been permanently removed), infection, extended pain, and/or additional scarring.

Other grafting options include synthetic or metal materials. The SteriGraft™ allografts offer a superior alternative to these materials which do not foster the growth of new bone the way actual bone does. Transplanted human tissue facilitates and promotes the tissue regeneration process. Once transplanted, a bone allograft will gradually break down, allowing your body to rebuild and remodel it until it is completely incorporated into your own tissue.

Due to limited donor availability, using an allograft (donated tissue) instead of an autograft (your own tissue) or synthetics is not always an option. When it is, as your doctor has indicated, allografts provide many advantages.

Patient Safety is a Primary Focus with SteriGraft™