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Bone Graft Alternatives for Spinal Fusion

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Abstract

Bone grafting to achieve fusion is frequently performed in spinal surgery. Autograft is the gold standard bone graft material. However, due to limitations of supply and morbidity associated with the harvest of autograft, alternatives are being considered. Osteoconductive matrices, such as allograft, calcium or ceramic preparations are one such class of potential bone graft alternatives, but generally they lack osteoinductive properties. Recent attention has focused on osteoinductive materials such as demineralised bone matrix, recombinant bone morphogenetic proteins and bone marrow aspirates or blood product concentrates. These products may be combined with osteoconductive carriers and are clearly finding a place in the clinical arena.

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Acknowledgements

No sources of funding were used to assist in the preparation of this review. Research support was received from Stryker Biotech (Hopkinton, MA, USA).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Rothman Institute at Jefferson University, 925 Chestnut Street, #1119, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA

    Jonathan N. Grauer, John M. Beiner, Brian K. Kwon &  Alexander R. Vaccaro

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  1. Jonathan N. Grauer
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  2. John M. Beiner
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  3. Brian K. Kwon
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  4. Alexander R. Vaccaro
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Correspondence to Alexander R. Vaccaro.

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Grauer, J.N., Beiner, J.M., Kwon, B.K. et al. Bone Graft Alternatives for Spinal Fusion. BioDrugs 17, 391–394 (2003). https://doi.org/10.2165/00063030-200317060-00002

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