What is the maximum amount of bone that can be harvested from the tibia?

The maximum amount of bone that can be harvested from the tibia in a surgical setting is typically around 40 cc. This figure is derived from studies and clinical experience that assess the capacity of the tibia for bone grafting procedures.

When harvesting bone from the tibia, surgical considerations include not only the volume but also the implications for the donor site, such as postoperative pain, risk of complications, and the potential for functional impairment. Harvesting up to 40 cc allows for a significant amount of graft material while minimizing the risk of complications and ensuring adequate recovery for the patient.

Volumes greater than this could lead to increased morbidity at the harvest site and may affect the structural integrity of the bone in the area. Therefore, 40 cc strikes a practical balance between obtaining enough graft material for the intended reconstruction while maintaining the safety and function of the patient’s lower limb.