Which type of graft is derived from bovine sources?

The correct answer is derived from the understanding of graft types in periodontal procedures. A xenograft refers to a graft that is sourced from a different species, which, in this case, would be bovine (cow) tissue. This type of graft is used in periodontal therapy to provide scaffolding for bone regeneration and is particularly advantageous because of its biocompatibility, which allows it to be used in human patients without evoking an adverse immune response.

Bovine-derived xenografts are processed to ensure they are sterile and devoid of any potential pathogens, making them a safe option for augmenting bone volume and facilitating healing. The use of animal-derived grafts can be particularly useful when human-derived grafts are not available or when there is a need for larger quantities of graft material than what can be harvested from the patient.

In contrast, an allograft is derived from another human donor, an autograft is taken from the same individual, and a composite graft involves a combination of different types of tissues, but does not specifically refer to a single source like bovine. Understanding these distinctions is vital in selecting the appropriate graft material based on clinical needs and available resources.