Alternatives in the selection of allograft bone.

Many orthopedic surgeons are unfamiliar with the various types of commercially available allograft bones, despite their frequent use in reconstructive and tumor surgery. This report summarizes the mechanical, osteoinduction, and safety data for sterile fresh-frozen, secondarily sterilized, and freeze-dried bone. The orthopedic surgeon can make informed choices about bone alternatives based on the risks and benefits of each type. Data have shown that fresh-frozen sterile-collection bone is the optimal substitute for autogenous bone in most applications.