Cadaveric Donor Bone Grafts: Current challenges and advancements in bone regeneration

Saiko Samantha Lima-Almaraz; Raquel Cariño-Cortés; Brenda Camila Falcón-Ortiz; Gustavo López-Martínez

Authors

Saiko Samantha Lima-Almaraz Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo https://orcid.org/0009-0004-6638-8535
Raquel Cariño-Cortés Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4776-3534
Brenda Camila Falcón-Ortiz Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo
Gustavo López-Martínez Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo

Keywords:

Allograft, Autograft, Bone transplantation, Bone regeneration, Allograft processing, Clinical applications of allografts

Abstract

One of the therapeutic alternatives when bone repair is insufficient involves the use of cadaveric donor bone grafts. These are particularly employed in cases of multifragmentary or complex fractures, lytic lesions, or in conditions with bone resorption, nonunion, or pseudarthrosis that do not respond adequately to initial treatment. Currently, in North America, allografts account for approximately one-third of all bone grafts used. An allograft refers to bone tissue obtained from human cadavers, which is sterilized and transplanted into a recipient. It is available in various forms, including cortical, cancellous, and demineralized bone matrix, among others. The rising incidence of bone-related conditions, such as infections and tumors, combined with the global increase in orthopedic surgeries, significantly contributes to the growing demand for bone grafts and substitutes. Bone grafting procedures have become an integral part of current medical-surgical and dental practice worldwide. The increasing number of these techniques, applications, and procedures underscores the importance of musculoskeletal tissue donation—not only for clinical use but also for research and the development of new biomaterials aimed at enhancing osteoinduction, osteoconduction, and osseointegration, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and meeting the growing clinical demand. Cadaveric donor bone grafts offer several advantages, including availability in diverse forms and their capacity to promote bone regeneration. However, their clinical success depends on several factors, such as biocompatibility, processing methods, and host response. This article compiles relevant information on the characteristics, clinical applications, and future perspectives of cadaveric donor bone grafts, providing an updated overview that positions them as both an effective and viable alternative for enhancing bone regeneration and improving clinical outcomes across various pathologies and surgical procedures.

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Publisher: Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo

Author Biography

Raquel Cariño-Cortés, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo

Academic Area of Medicine

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