Distal Tibia Allograft
A reconstructive procedure that rebuilds a shoulder socket with severe bone loss using donor bone, restoring both the surface and the shape of the joint.
About this procedure
This procedure treats significant socket bone loss by adding a precisely shaped piece of donor bone from the distal tibia, the lower shin bone. Its curved cartilage surface closely matches the shoulder socket. Dr. Sonntag secures the graft to the front of the socket, rebuilding both the bone and a smooth gliding surface.
Dr. Sonntag considers this option for patients with substantial bone loss, including some who have had a previous stabilization surgery fail. He carefully assesses the extent of bone loss with imaging beforehand, reserving this reconstruction for cases where restoring the socket's structure is essential for lasting stability.
What to expect
- Restores the socket in cases of severe bone loss
- Donor bone provides a matching cartilage surface
- An option when prior stabilization has failed
- Rebuilds both structure and joint stability*
The graft needs time to heal into place, so the shoulder is protected in a sling for several weeks before a gradual return to motion and strengthening over several months.*
Care with Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag
Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag, DO is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in shoulder and elbow surgery, practicing at OSMC in Granger, IN, Elkhart, IN, Middlebury, IN.
View education, fellowship training, and credentialsLet's get you moving again.
Request a consultation and Dr. Sonntag's team will be in touch, typically within one business day. Most major insurance accepted.