Evidence-based Approach to Bone Grafting Options in the Lumbar Spine

We have recently witnessed a rapid expansion of commercially available bone grafting options that have primarily been introduced for use in the lumbar spine in addition or as an alternative to iliac crest bone graft (ICBG). Arguably, these options can shorten operative times by obviating the need for iliac crest bone grafting, while also decreasing the subsequent morbidity associated with harvesting crest graft or just increasing bone graft volume. Nonetheless, before widespread clinical use we should critically evaluate the burden of scientific proof for each product in terms of: