Effect of Alveolar Segmental Sandwich Osteotomy on Alveolar Height: A Preliminary Study.

Abstract

Bone loss following extraction is maximum in horizontal dimension. Height is also reduced which is pronounced on the buccal aspect. Various surgical procedures are available to correct the bone volume viz. GBR, onlay bone grafting, alveolar distraction and sandwich osteotomy. Sandwich osteotomy has been found to increase the vertical alveolar bone height successfully. The objective of the study was to assess the effect of alveolar segmental sandwich osteotomy on alveolar height and crestal width. A prospective study was undertaken from December 2012 to August 2014. Seven patients with 12 implant sites with a mean age of 36years were recruited. All seven patients with 12 implant sites underwent alveolar segmental sandwich osteotomy and interpositional bone grafting. Alveolar bone height was assessed radiographically preoperatively, immediate post-op, and at 3months post-op. Alveolar bone width was assessed radiographically preoperatively and at 3months post-op. Statistical significance was inferred at p<0.05. The mean vertical augmentation at immediate post-op was 6.58mm (p=0.001). The vertical augmentation that was achieved 3months post-op was a mean of 3.75mm which was statistically significant (p=0.004). The change in alveolar height from immediate post-op to 3month post-op was a mean 1.69mm. The mean change in alveolar crestal width at 3months was a mean of -0.29mm (p=0.57). Sandwich osteotomy can be used as an alternative technique to increase alveolar bone height prior to implant placement. Moderate alveolar deficiency can be predictably corrected by this technique.