Autologous graft

An autologous graft refers to a tissue or organ graft that is taken from one part of an individual's body and transplanted to another part of the same individual. The term “autologous” indicates that the donor and recipient are the same person. Autologous grafts have several advantages in medical procedures, primarily because they minimize the risk of rejection and immune responses that can occur with allografts (grafts taken from another individual) or xenografts (grafts taken from a different species).

Here are some common examples of autologous grafts:

Autologous Bone Grafts: In orthopedic and reconstructive surgeries, bone grafts may be required to promote bone healing or replace damaged bone. Autologous bone grafts are often harvested from the patient's own bones, such as the iliac crest (pelvis) or other suitable sites. These grafts can be used in procedures like spinal fusions or to repair bone defects.

Autologous Skin Grafts: In cases of severe burns, chronic wounds, or skin injuries, autologous skin grafts may be harvested from one area of the patient's body (the donor site) and transplanted to the damaged or injured area (the recipient site). This helps in promoting wound healing and reducing the risk of rejection.

Autologous Blood or Marrow Stem Cell Transplants: In the field of hematology and oncology, autologous stem cell transplants involve collecting the patient's own blood or bone marrow stem cells before undergoing high-dose chemotherapy or radiation. After the treatment, the harvested stem cells are reintroduced into the patient to restore the blood-forming system.

Autologous Cartilage Grafts: In joint surgeries, particularly those involving the knee, autologous cartilage grafts may be used to repair damaged cartilage. Cartilage may be harvested from a non-weight-bearing area of the patient's own joint and then transplanted to the damaged area.

Advantages of autologous grafts include a reduced risk of graft rejection, lower risk of disease transmission, and compatibility with the patient's immune system. However, the availability of suitable donor sites and the potential for additional surgical procedures to harvest the graft are considerations in the use of autologous grafts.

see Autologous bone

see Autologous nerve

Example: Autogenous nerve grafting

see Cortical iliac crest autograft

see Autologous fat graft.