THE ADVERSE EFFECT OF HEALING COMPLICATIONS TO THE OUTCOME OF GBR – A 'SPLIT MOUTH' CASE REPORT

Abstract

Inadequate alveolar process width and height can be overcome by the utilization of distraction osteogenesis, split crest technique or a sinus lift, however many clinical scenarios require the use of guided bone regeneration (GBR). When vertical deciencies are present, the collective opinion is that non-resorbable membranes should be employed in the augmentation procedure. While remaining form stable throughout the healing period is advantageous for vertical regeneration, the non-resorbable membranes' biological properties do not aid the primary intention closure over the grafted region in any way. As a result, membrane exposures occur which have emphatically negative effect on the regeneration process. There certainly is an abundance of evidence on the detrimental effect of healing complications on the GBR process, however the information regarding the outcome of the bone regeneration process involving exposed vs unexposed sites in the same individual is scarce.