Utilization of autogenous corticocancellous bone graft from the distal tibia for reconstructive surgery of the foot and ankle.

Procurement of corticocancellous autogenous bone graft from any donor site is not without potential complications. Increased postoperative morbidity, fracture at the donor site, an additional surgical procedure, increased operative time, excessive blood loss, hematoma, and increased relative cost are all factors that must be considered, regardless of donor site. The authors have been using the distal tibia as a source of corticocancellous bone since 1988. A review of 16 patients with distal tibial bone grafts at our institution has demonstrated this area to be readily available and effective with limited morbidity. The distal tibial metaphyseal area has been found to be an excellent source of corticocancellous bone for grafting in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery.