Where Does Donor Rib Cartilage Come From?

Hi,

Most surgeons who use rib cartilage for rhinoplasty surgeon harvest live rib cartilage from the patient, some prefer irradiated rib from a cadaver. 

Though, in answer to your question, the original rib donor was Adam.  Good luck and be well.

Dr. P

There is cadaveric cartilage, (comes from a cadaver, or dead person).  This material is radiated to wipe out infectious agents and antibodies that might cause rejection.  

There is autologous cartilage,(from yourself).  This is harvested from the anterior side of your chest wall through an incision over your rib cage. 

Most surgeons prefer autologous as there is some concern about resorption of cadaveric bone over time.

In general, donor rib cartilage is from a cadaver or someone who is deceased. It is treated either chemically or irradiated or both to make sure there is no risk of infection. Since there are no living cells, it is safe from any possible infection. I hope this information helps.

Rib cartilage can sometimes be used for rhinoplasty surgery. Usually this cartilage is harvested from the ribs of the person having the rhinoplasty. Occasionally, cadaveric cartilage can also be used. The cartilage does not come from other living donors like kidneys, for instance.

Donor rib cartilage is preferably taken from your rib when needed and is typically used for reconstruction of the dorsum (bridge) of the nose. Some surgeons will still occasionally use irradiated cartilage from a cadaver which reduces the likelihood of an allergic reaction as well as sterilizing the product.. However, there is controversy on the longevity and survival of these grafts.