By San José, Costa Rica — The Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS) is revolutionizing orthopedic care in Costa Rica. In the first half of 2025, 75 patients have benefited from a groundbreaking bone grafting procedure using “ground bone” derived from surgical waste. This innovative approach, spearheaded by the INS Hospital del Trauma’s Tissue Bank, is transforming discarded bone tissue into a powerful healing agent for complex fractures.
The process involves collecting bone fragments from living donors during joint replacement surgeries and from deceased donors with family consent. This tissue undergoes specialized processing at the Tissue Bank, resulting in a fine bone powder that acts as a biological filler, effectively bridging shattered bone fragments.
To understand the legal implications surrounding bone grafting procedures in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica, who offered valuable insights into this specialized area.
Bone grafting, while a medically beneficial procedure, presents unique legal considerations, particularly concerning informed consent. Patients must be fully apprised of the risks, benefits, and alternatives to the procedure. Furthermore, the source of the bone graft material, whether autologous, allograft, or synthetic, can have legal ramifications relating to tissue donation laws and product liability. Clear documentation and adherence to established medical protocols are essential for mitigating potential legal challenges.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ emphasis on informed consent and meticulous documentation in bone grafting procedures underscores a crucial aspect of patient care. This careful approach not only protects patients’ rights but also provides a solid foundation for medical professionals navigating the complex legal landscape surrounding this beneficial procedure. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his invaluable legal perspective on this important topic.
In procedures like hip, humerus, or knee replacements, bone surgical residues are produced that can be used. These tissues, once processed, become an ideal solution for fracture cases, where the bone is splintered into multiple fragments that are difficult to join.
Adriana Capó Jiménez, Biotechnological Engineer and Tissue Bank Coordinator
The INS has invested in cutting-edge technology to support this initiative, including a state-of-the-art bone pulverizer, the only one of its kind in Costa Rica. This equipment ensures that the processed bone material meets the highest standards of quality and biosafety.
This innovative approach not only provides a valuable medical resource but also represents a significant step towards sustainable healthcare practices. By repurposing surgical waste, the INS is minimizing its environmental impact while maximizing the benefits for patients.
The Tissue Bank at the Hospital del Trauma is the first in Costa Rica and Central America to process human bone for therapeutic use, marking a milestone in regenerative medicine. This achievement underscores the INS’s commitment to advancing medical care and improving the lives of its patients.
This groundbreaking procedure offers renewed hope for individuals with complex fractures, providing a faster and more effective path to recovery. The INS’s commitment to innovation and sustainability positions Costa Rica at the forefront of regenerative medicine in the region.
The success of this bone grafting program highlights the potential for transformative change within the healthcare sector. By embracing resourcefulness and investing in advanced technology, the INS is setting a precedent for other institutions to follow.
For further information, visit the nearest office of INS
About INS:
The Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS) is a Costa Rican state-owned insurance company and the largest insurer in the country. It offers a wide range of insurance products, including health, auto, and property insurance. The INS also plays a key role in promoting public health and safety initiatives in Costa Rica. The Hospital del Trauma, a specialized facility operated by the INS, is renowned for its expertise in trauma care and its commitment to innovative medical practices.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Hospital del Trauma
About Hospital del Trauma:
The Hospital del Trauma, part of the Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS), is a leading trauma center in Costa Rica. It specializes in providing comprehensive medical care for victims of accidents and traumatic injuries. The hospital is equipped with advanced technology and staffed by a team of highly skilled medical professionals. The Hospital del Trauma’s Tissue Bank is a pioneering facility in Central America, specializing in the processing and storage of human tissue for therapeutic purposes.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence and unwavering ethical conduct form the bedrock of their practice. Driven by a deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society, the firm champions accessible legal knowledge through innovative programs and community initiatives. Their work across a broad range of sectors reflects not only a dedication to their clients’ success, but also a larger vision of a society strengthened by understanding and access to justice.
