Prospect of Bone Xenograft as Alternate to Autologous Bone Graft: A Survey of Orthopaedic Surgeons Perspective in Nigeria

Abstract

This study aimed at evaluating the problems associated with autografts in orthopaedic practice and the acceptability of alternative bone graft products to orthopaedic surgeons in Nigeria. Google form, an electronic questionnaire platform was designed and used for the purpose of this study. Orthopaedic surgeons in the designation of consultants and senior registrars were the respondents. Various questions were asked to know the complications associated with bone autograft and to deduce if locally available bone xenografts will benefit their practice. The data generated were analysed using descriptive statistics. A total number of 83 responses were received from this survey. This survey reported limited supply of autologous bone graft (83, 100%), donor site pain (77, 92.77%), donor site infection (44, 53.01%), haemorrhage (50, 60.24%) and prolonged duration of surgery (77, 92.77%) among other problems associated with harvesting bone autograft. Fifty-five (66.27%) responded that if the bone xenograft is prepared hygienically with consistency taking ethics and tissue rejection into consideration, it will circumvent the problems of autograft. We therefore conclude that efforts should be made toward research on how biocompatible bone xenograft could be locally prepared in developing countries that will be acceptable and affordable for orthopaedic practice to overcome the challenges of autologous bone graft and high cost of commercially available bone substitute.