Low Donor Site Morbidity Associated With Tricortical Calcaneal Bone Graft

Abstract

Background: Autologous grafting is widely used in orthopaedic surgery because of its high osteogenic capacity, immunologic compatibility, for the absence of risk of disease transmission, and for not requiring a bone bank. The posterior-superior calcaneal tuberosity is an option for obtaining a cortical and cancellous structural bone. This study aims to describe the operative technique and complications observed at the donor site of the posterior-superior calcaneal tuberosity. Methods: Patients who underwent graft harvesting from the posterior-superior calcaneal tuberosity were retrospectively evaluated by pain outcomes, imaging tests, and intra- and postoperative complications. Results: Twenty patients with a median age of 69 years (range 48-77) and follow-up of 16 months (12-26) were assessed. Median postoperative pain at the donor site was 0 (0-6), with 2 patients reporting persistent local pain. No case of Achilles tendon rupture or intra- or postoperative calcaneal fracture were identified. One patient developed a superficial infection that was quickly resolved using oral antibiotic therapy. Conclusion: The posterior-superior calcaneal tuberosity is an alternative source of autologous graft with low donor site morbidity. Level of Evidence Level IV, case series.