Bone Augmentation Research Articles

Connective Tissue Graft May Compensate for Residual Bone Defect of the Implant in the Esthetic Zone: A Case Report with 7-year Follow-up

The present case report aimed to demonstrate the case using a connective tissue graft (CTG) to compensate for a residual defect after guided bone regeneration (GBR) in the anterior maxillary area. An extensive number of studies have reported successful outcomes of horizontal bone augmentation, but it was also demonstrated that a complete resolution of the defect may not be achieved in all cases. In the present case report, the patient underwent implant placement simultaneously with GBR at the anterior maxillary area. After 4 months, partial regeneration of the initial defect was observed. To compensate for such residual defect, a CTG was applied. Other expectations by the CTG were to enhance tissue volume and phenotype. The final prosthesis was delivered after 3 months. Up to 7 years, favorable radiographic and clinical situations were observed. In conclusion, a CTG may compensate for residual bone defect of the implant in the esthetic zone.

Long-Term Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Hydrophilic Implants: A 10-Year Study in a Specialist Private Practice.

To report the 10-year clinical and radiographic outcomes of implants placed in grafted (GBR) and non-grafted (no-GBR) sites in a Swiss specialist private practice using hydrophilic implants with a low surface roughness flange. Fifty consecutively enrolled patients received 159 hydrophilic implants with a low surface roughness flange. A first re-evaluation was performed 1 year after delivery of restoration (T1). An additional examination was performed at the 10-year follow-up (T2) including the assessment of clinical (i.e., periodontal/peri-implant pockets probing depths (PPD) (mm), full-mouth bleeding score (%), implant survival rate, mid-buccal keratinized mucosa (KM) width in mm, and peri-implant phenotype), and radiographic (i.e., marginal bone level change [ΔMBL]) outcomes. Biological, mechanical and technical complications were also recorded. Out of the initial cohort, 22 patients (9/40.9% male and 13/59% female) and 63 implants (47 with GBR, 16 without GBR), could be re-examined at T2. Overall, ΔMBL (T2-T1) was -0.56 ± 0.96 mm. In the GBR group, ΔMBL were significantly higher at the distal sites compared to the no-GBR group (-0.75 ± 1.17 mm vs. -0.12 ± 1.29 mm, p = 0.045), however, in the GBR group MBL started at a higher level at T1 but were similar with the no-GBR group at T2. Implant survival was 100% with only very few technical complications (6.3%). Mean PPD amounted to 3.84 ± 1.00 mm with significantly higher values in the GBR group (3.98 ± 1.08 mm vs. 3.45 ± 0.60 mm; p = 0.016). Nineteen implants (30.1%) were diagnosed with peri-implant health while 44 (69.9%) presented with peri-implant mucositis. Within the limitations of this study, favorable clinical and radiographic conditions were recorded around hydrophilic implants with a low surface roughness flange placed in pristine and augmented bone after 10 years in function.

Microarchitectural Study of the Augmented Bone Following a Modified Ridge Splitting Technique: Histological and Micro-Computed Tomography Analyses

Microarchitectural Study of the Augmented Bone Following a Modified Ridge Splitting Technique: Histological and Micro-Computed Tomography Analyses

The influence of suturing and or gluing of perforated Schneiderian membrane during sinuslift procedure on the outcome: a retrospective study

The sinus lift procedure has become the most common method for maxillary bone augmentation. The most frequently observed intraoperative complication is the perforation of the Schneiderian membrane. Various treatment options have been proposed for managing these perforations, including the use of resorbable membranes, centrifugated blood products as PRF, or PRGF, suturing, and fibrin glue application. While long-term studies exist for the use of resorbable membranes to close perforations, there is limited data on the long-term outcomes of suturing or gluing the perforated sinus membrane. The aim of this retrospective study is to evaluate the long-term outcomes of suturing and/or applying fibrin glue to repair perforated sinus mucosa during sinus floor elevation procedures. Between 2005 and 2009, a total of 692 patients underwent 923 sinus lift surgeries, and Schneiderian membrane perforation occurred in 202 sinus floor elevations (21.98%) across 168 patients. The main documented causes of perforations, which ranged from 2 to 10 mm in diameter, were the presence of septa, followed by thin and adherent membranes. Of the perforations, 100 (49.5%) were treated with microsurgical suturing combined with fibrin glue, 78 (38.6%) were treated with fibrin glue alone, and 24 (11.9%) were treated exclusively with suturing. Sinus grafting was performed using autogenous bone in combination with a biomaterial, following the layering technique. All surgeries resulted in primary healing without complications, enabling all patients to undergo restoration as planned. The long term clinical and radiological evaluations of 44 randomly selected patients who followed the recall program up to 10 years post operative confirmed the effectiveness of this treatment approach.

Autologous myokine-loaded pre-vascularized bioactive scaffold enhances bone augmentation

The poor angiogenic ability is the main reason for the failure of bone augmentation material implantation. Pre-vascularized culture is considered to be an effective method to accelerate early angiogenesis, while the immune rejection has limited clinical application. Herein, since bone augmentation is an elective procedure, an easily accessible pre-vascularized silk fibroin/bioactive glass (SF-BG) scaffold without immune rejection was prepared by autologous intramuscular implantation. The SF-BG scaffolds exhibited outstanding vascularization ability in muscle by enhancing the muscle endocrine function. Further mechanism study confirmed that BG improved the synthesis and secretion of myokine irisin by regulating PI3K/Akt/PGC-1α/FNDC5 signaling pathway. After implantation in the bone augmentation position, the pre-vascularized BG scaffold with irisin loaded fostered the early angiogenesis of implantation and increased bone augmentation at the late stage. This study proposed a new idea for bone augmentation by autologous intramuscular pre-vascularized scaffolds.

Osteoinductively Functionalized 3D-Printed Scaffold for Vertical Bone Augmentation in Beagle Dogs.

To evaluate the efficacy of 3D-printed scaffolds that were osteoinductively functionalized with a bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2)-incorporated biomimetic calcium phosphate particles (BMP-2-inc. BpNcCaP)/hyaluronic acid (HA) composite gel in vertical bone augmentation in beagle dogs. Four Beagle dogs were used in this study. Three months after the extraction of 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th premolars at both sides of the lower jaws of Beagle dogs, one or two critical-size vertical bone defects (4 mm vertical bone defect without buccal and lingual bone) on each sidewere surgically created. The defects were randomly subjected to the following groups: (1) Control (without bone-defect-filling materials); (2) 3D scaffold; (3) BMP2-inc. BpNcCaP/HA-functionalized 3D scaffold. Six weeks post-surgery, samples were harvested and subjected to micro-CT and histomorphometric analyses. The struts of the BMP2-inc. BpNcCaP/HA-func. 3D scaffold were covered by a thick layer of cemented irregular particles with an average pore size at 327 ± 27 μm. The BpNcCaP/HA-func. 3D scaffold group bore significantly higher bone volume, bone volume fraction, trabecular number, trabecular thickness, bone mineral density, connectivity density, and bone volumes in three directions (mesiodistal, buccolingual, and apicocoronal) when compared with the groups of Control and 3D scaffold. Moreover, the BMP2-inc. BpNcCaP/HA-func. 3D scaffold group bore significantly lower trabecular separation and exhibited significantly higher bone-to-scaffold contact percentage and newly formed bone area percentage within pores in comparison with 3D scaffold. BMP2-inc. BpNcCaP/HA-func. 3D scaffold dramatically enhanced vertical alveolar bone augmentation, which suggests a promising application potential of BMP2-inc. BpNcCaP/HA-func. 3D scaffold in dental clinic.

The Clinical Efficacy and Safety of ErhBMP-2/BioCaP/β-TCP as a Novel Bone Substitute Using the Tooth-Extraction-Socket-Healing Model: A Proof-of-Concept Randomized ControlledTrial.

This first randomized controlled trial in humans aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of low-dosage Escherichia coli-derived recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (ErhBMP-2)-incorporated biomimetic calcium phosphate coating-functionalized β-TCP (ErhBMP-2/BioCaP/β-TCP) as a novel bone substitute using the tooth-extraction-socket-healing model. Forty patients requiring dental implants after single-root tooth extraction were enrolled in this study and randomly assigned into three groups: ErhBMP-2/BioCaP/β-TCP (N = 15), β-TCP (N = 15) and natural healing (N = 10). New bone volume density from histomorphometric analyses was evaluated 6 weeks post-operatively as the primary outcome, and other histomorphometric analyses, alveolar bone and soft-tissue changes were the secondary outcomes. Safety parameters included adverse events, soft-tissue healing, oral health impact profile, serum BMP-2 concentrations and other laboratory tests. The findings revealed a significant increase in new bone volume density in patients treated with ErhBMP-2/BioCaP/β-TCP compared to those receiving β-TCP alone. The required bone augmentation procedures during implant placement surgery in the ErhBMP-2/BioCaP/β-TCP group were significantly less than in the natural healing group. There were no significant differences in safety parameters among the three groups. This clinical trial primarily proved the safety and efficacy of ErhBMP-2/BioCaP/β-TCP as a promising bone substitute.

A comparative quantitative assessment of 3D-printed PEKK and PEEK thin meshes in customized alveolar bone augmentation

ObjectiveCustomized nonabsorbable membranes are widely used in severe alveolar bone defects and provide sufficient and precise regenerated bone tissue for subsequent dental implant placement. Although 3D-printed polyetheretherketone (PEEK) meshes have confirmed successful use in clinical cases, the performance of a PEEK mesh is not satisfactory. Compared with PEEK, polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) has better mechanical and processing properties. However, whether PEKK is suitable for making customized membranes remains unclear. The objectives of this study were (1) to evaluate the printing precision, surface characteristics, mechanical characteristics and biocompatibility of the PEKK mesh and (2) to compare the properties of the PEKK and PEEK meshes.Materials and methodsBoth PEKK and PEEK meshes were designed and manufactured via additive manufacturing technology combined with computer-aided design (CAD). The printing precision was evaluated with a high-resolution extraoral scanner. The surface characteristics were evaluated with a contact angle system and three-dimensional optical microscopy. The mechanical characteristics were evaluated via three-point bending tests and tensile tests. The biocompatibility was evaluated with a CCK-8 assay, live/dead viability assay and qRT-PCT.ResultsCompared with the PEEK mesh, the PEKK mesh exhibited better control in terms of the thickness and aperture area. Both the PEKK mesh and the PEEK mesh had a hydrophobic surface, but the PEKK mesh had a smoother surface. Compared with the PEEK mesh, the PEKK mesh has better compression and tensile properties. Both the PEKK mesh and the PEEK mesh had good biocompatibility. The proliferation of cells on the PEKK mesh was slightly lower than that on the PEEK mesh.ConclusionsCompared with PEEK mesh, PEKK mesh has greater printing accuracy, smoother surfaces, better mechanical properties and similar biocompatibility and is expected to be used in the production of customized barrier membranes for the augmentation of severe bone defects. To ensure the stability of the mesh for clinical application, it is best to control the aperture diameter of the PEKK mesh to less than 2 mm with a thickness of 0.2 μm.

New titanium mesh design method in customized bone regeneration of the jaws: preliminary study on a sample of 11 patients

The aim of this study is 1) to present a new method of virtually-designed custom made scaffolds to be employed in customized bone regeneration (CBR) for segmental jaw atrophies and 2) to evaluate long-term clinical results in terms of bone regeneration success and implant rehabilitation success. A total of 11 patients with edentulousness and bone atrophy in a localized area of the mandible or the maxilla were recruited for the study. To fulfill the research inquiries, CT images of the pre-regeneration mandibular or maxillary arch of each patient were collected. A dedicated Mevislab 2.4 software was employed to virtually design custom bone regeneration meshes designed to fit the atrophic sector of each patient's mandible or maxilla. Subsequently, a second Meshmixer software was used to refine the margins of each of the designed meshes. All patients underwent oral surgery, during which a mixture of autologous and heterologous bone in a 1:1 proportion was grafted into the atrophic site, a custom-made mesh was placed, and a resorbable membrane was inserted. The mesh was removed after this procedure, and implant rehabilitation was performed. All patients underwent the bone regeneration procedure, with eight undergoing titanium mesh removal. A total of seven patients completed implant rehabilitation. Average horizontal bone augmentation was 3.525 ± 1.36 mm; average vertical bone augmentation was 4.45 ± 2.22 mm. Implant survival was 92.85%. During the healing phase, complications occurred in 9.09% of patients. The use of dedicated software, Mevislab 2.4 and Meshmixer, for titanium mesh design is an accurate, predictable, effective, and quick-to-use method. The learning curve for design is uncomplicated and rapid. Mesh exposure does not necessarily lead to bone graft failure; this complication can be treated by chlorhexidine aids.

A Pilot Study Showing Application of Palatal Bone Harvesting Under Dynamic Navigation Guidance in Oral Implantology.

In cases of insufficient bone volume in the implant area, bone augmentation surgery is often required to ensure an adequate amount of bone around the implant. In autologous bone grafting procedures, some patients face insufficient bone volume at conventional intraoral bone harvesting sites. Due to the high difficulty associated with completing palatal osteotomies freehand, fewer palatal lateral osteotomies have been reported, and palatal bone blocks are not routinely used in bone augmentation procedures. With the development of digitally guided implant technology, palatal bone harvesting has become feasible. In this paper, we will present a method of obtaining a circumferential bone block of the palate for implant surgical application through dynamic navigation guidance. A total of three patients had undergone this procedure to obtain circumferential palatal bone blocks and completed bone augmentation surgery. The bone augmentation results in the implanted area have been favorable, and there has been some bone recovery at the harvesting site. This is a safe and effective way to obtain intraoral bone blocks.

Major clinical relevance and considerations of zygomatic implants in elderly patients: a systematic review

For decades, zygomatic implants (ZI) have been used to rehabilitate atrophic maxillae and reconstruct maxillary defects, demonstrating significant survival rates, and have emerged as an alternative to extensive bone grafting. Despite their efficacy, surgical techniques for ZI placement have consistently been associated with perioperative complications, with additional problems arising later, especially in elderly patients. Objective: The present study developed a systematic review to address the main clinical relevance and considerations of zygomatic implants in elderly patients. Methods: The present study followed a concise systematic review model. The search was carried out in the PubMed, Embase, Ovid, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. The quality of the studies was based on the GRADE instrument and the risk of bias was analyzed according to the Cochrane instrument. Results and Conclusion: A total of 220 articles were found. In total, 77 articles were fully evaluated and 57 were included and evaluated in this study, and of the total of 57 articles, only 42 articles were developed in the item results of the systematic review. Of the initial total of articles, 108 articles were excluded because they did not meet the GRADE and AMSTAR-2 classification, and 20 were excluded because they presented a risk of bias that could compromise the credibility of the studies. The symmetric funnel plot does not suggest a risk of bias. According to the GRADE instrument, most studies presented homogeneity in their results, with X2=85.6%>50%. It was concluded the ZI has a high rate of survival accumulated in 12 years, with the majority of failures occurring in the early stages of the postoperative period. The main complication observed related to zygomatic implants in elderly patients was sinusitis, which can appear several years after implantation surgery. The presence of increased maxillary sinus pneumatization with advanced resorption of the posterior alveolus may result in insufficient bone to anchor the implant. Bone augmentation is generally necessary under these conditions to allow the placement of a sufficient number and length of implants. Another more serious condition would be defects of maxillectomy, aplasia of the maxillary sinus, and cleft deformities. Zygomatic implants appear to be a consolidated therapeutic option for a significantly atrophic maxilla in elderly patients, offering a promising alternative to costly heavy bone graft techniques, fewer complications, less time for rehabilitation, less required prosthodontic work, and significantly higher survival rates.

Simple-Challenging-Difficult (SCD) Difficulty Classification for Vertical Bone Augmentation.

To propose a new difficulty classification for vertical bone augmentation (VBA) based on different defect morphologies. VBA procedures for dental implant placement present significant biological and technical challenges. Among the various techniques, guided bone regeneration (GBR) provides an optimal balance between the anticipated bone gain and the likelihood of postoperative complications. Understanding the specific configuration of defects and adjacent bone peaks is essential for tailoring treatment strategies and improving outcomes. The proposed Simple-Challenging-Difficult (SCD) difficulty classification was based on defect morphology (V-shaped, U-shaped, VV-shaped), including defect size (Height: < 5 mm, 5-8 mm, and > 8 mm), proximity of neighboring bony walls (Width: < 10 mm, 10-20 mm, and > 20 mm), as well as predictability of treatment outcomes. The proposed difficulty classification for VBA serves as a guide for selecting the most appropriate GBR treatment modality and sequence for safe and predictable management of VBA in implant therapy. In addition, when determining the preferred treatment, it is again essential to consider site-specific and patient-related factors alongside the clinician's surgical experience and skill. Identifying defect patterns and bone peak structures is crucial, and the proposed classification assists in decision-making in VBA treatment.

Comparison of three approaches for treating the bony access window in lateral sinus floor elevation: a retrospective analysis

The aim of this study was to retrospectively determine the effects of applying different treatment methods to the bony access window on the healing outcomes in lateral sinus floor elevation (SFE). Lateral SFE with implant placement was performed in 131 sinuses of 105 patients. The following three treatment methods were applied to the bony access window: application of a collagen barrier (group CB), repositioning the bone fragment (group RW) and untreated (group UT). Radiographic healing in the window area, augmented bone height changes and marginal bone level changes were examined. Mixed logistic and mixed linear models were analyzed. Over 4.3 ± 1.4 years of follow-up, the implant survival rate was 100% in groups CB and UT, and 96.9% in group RW. The treatment applied to the window did not significantly influence the radiographic healing in the window area, augmented bone height changes or marginal bone level changes (p > 0.05). The healed window areas had generally flat morphologies and were fully corticalized. The mean changes in the augmented bone were less than 1.5 mm in all groups. Marginal bone level changes were minimal. In conclusion, Healing outcomes were not different among three different methods to treat the bony access window in lateral SFE.

Considerations for the Management of Early Complications in Bone Regeneration: A Case Report

This case report evaluates the possible reasons for early complications after guided bone regeneration, as well as options for their management. A thorough evaluation prior to surgery will help determine appropriate planning. Each clinician should be aware of the goals and possible limitations of the treatment to be performed to ensure optimal patient care. The management of the membrane, early exposure and contamination with a second bone augmentation surgery provided a sufficient amount of bone to place a dental implant in a correct three-dimensional position. CPD/Clinical Relevance: The correct approach for the management of the complications for regenerative bone therapy is highlighted.

Demineralized, Freeze-Dried Allogeneic Bone Blocks With Suture Fixation Technique for Reconstruction of Maxillary Alveolar Bone Deficiency: A Case Series.

This study aims to evaluate the clinical outcomes of using demineralized, freeze-dried allogeneic bone blocks (DFDABB) combined with the periosteal vertical mattress suture (PVMS) technique for the reconstruction of severe horizontal alveolar bone deficiencies in the maxilla. In continuous horizontal maxillary defects cases, bone augmentation was performed using DFDABB and deproteinized bovine bone matrix (DBBM) filling the interstice. Subsequently, a resorbable collagen membrane was carefully placed over the graft surface, and both the membrane and bone graft were firmly secured using the PVMS technique. Linear changes were assessed through superimposed cone-beam computerized tomography scans obtained before the operation and after a healing period of 6-10 months. A total of 7 female patients with 10 bone blocks and 13 implants were included in this study. One of the wounds was slightly ruptured postoperatively without infection, and all implants showed successful osseointegration. The average alveolar ridge width at a point 5 mm below the crest was 4.52 ± 2.03 mm before bone graft and 9.79 ± 1.57 mm after implantation with an average increase of 5.26 ± 1.97 mm. Similarly, at a point 10 mm below the crest, the pregraft alveolar ridge width measured 7.23 ± 3.60 mm, and postimplantation, it expanded to 11.81 ± 2.90 mm, showing an average gain of 4.58 ± 2.01 mm. This case series demonstrates the successful application of DFDABB combined with the PVMS technique to achieve adequate bone width for implantation at severe continuous horizontal bone deficiency of the maxilla. DFDABB with the PVMS technique resulted in superior horizontal bone gain during maxillary bone augmentation with horizontal continuity deficiency. However, further studies are necessary to validate these findings.

Management of Rotator Cuff Tears in Severely Osteoporotic Patients

Management of rotator cuff tears (RCT) in osteoporotic patients presents significant challenges for treating clinicians because of compromised bone quality. We present a case series of 2 patients with RCT and severe osteoporosis highlighting the complexities of operative and nonoperative management and underscoring the importance of preoperative optimization and careful surgical planning in this vulnerable population. Patient 1 experienced initial improvement postarthroscopic RCT repair but required revision surgery because of anchor pullout, with eventual conversion to reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. Patient 2 faced intraoperative challenges because of previously undiagnosed osteoporosis, leading to difficulties in securely placing suture anchors, and was referred to the fracture liaison service (FLS) for osteoporosis management postoperatively. A multifaceted approach integrating preoperative optimization, advanced surgical techniques, and postoperative management is advised to improve operative success. Extensive perioperative bone quality assessments and augmentation strategies are warranted, including medication comanagement through an FLS if available. Detailed surgical planning is crucial, focusing on arthroscopic repair technique while considering various anchor factors to mitigate failure including proper placement, design, and pullout analysis. Intraoperative bone augmentation with materials such as calcium phosphate, magnesium phosphate, and polymethyl methacrylate cements significantly improves anchor fixation strength in osteoporotic bone. Consideration of a transosseous approach and potential for conversion to an open procedure is also an option when necessary. This review highlights the unique challenges and potential options available to treating clinicians when managing RCT in osteoporotic patients. Continued research and refinement of emerging treatment strategies are essential to improve outcomes and quality of life in this patient population.

Bone augmentation with ridge split technique in implant placement

Bone augmentation with ridge split technique in implant placement

Fully digital versus conventional workflow: Are removable complete overdentures equally good? A randomized crossover trial.

Implant-supported removable complete overdentures (IODs) are a common treatment in case of edentulism and malfunctioning of the conventional denture. Manufacturing IODs in a conventional way (C-IODs) is time-consuming, but in a digital workflow, this can be done in three sessions. Digitally produced IODs (3D-IODs) are also more advantageous than C-IODs because lost or broken 3D-IODs can be swiftly reproduced as the digital design is always available. To prove in a non-inferiority study, with a margin of 0.3 point per Oral Health Impact Profile-20 (OHIP-20) question, that IODs made according to a fully digital workflow (3D-IODs), function as good as C-IODs with respect to patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). This randomized crossover study included 36 fully edentulous patients who showed extreme resorption of the maxillary alveolar process, making denture retention difficult. After a maxillary bone augmentation and the installation of 4-6 implants, each patient wore both types of IOD for 1 year each, with the order reversed in two subsets of patients. The 3D-IODs and C-IODs were fabricated in advance for both jaws (at least two mandibular implants were already present). The OHIP-20 survey was performed at baseline, after 1 year (before the IOD switch), and after 2 years to determine patient satisfaction scores using a visual analog scale (VAS). The general health status was assessed using the Short Form (SF-36) questionnaire. Regarding the PROMs, patients preferred the 3D-IOD: the improvement on the overall OHIP scale (0-4), expressed as a mean, was 0.26 points greater than for the C-IOD (p < 0.001). This applied also to the VAS scale (1-100) with an increase of 7.37 points (p < 0.001). Regarding the SF-36 scale, only for the item "emotional well-being," the 3D-IOD scored significantly better (p = 0.033). Compared with conventionally fabricated C-IODs, fully digitally produced 3D-IODs resulted in significantly higher OHIP-20 and satisfaction scores.

Enhancing early-stage healing responses through the modified "Poncho" technique in customized titanium mesh-mediated bone regeneration: A soft tissue management approach-case series.

Soft tissue management is critical in bone augmentation surgery to prevent wound dehiscence. Several strategies for passive tissue primary closure have been explored. This article introduces a flap design known as the modified "Poncho" technique (MPT), integrated with customized titanium mesh-mediated bone regeneration, and investigates the healing quality during the initial stages of an incision. The cohort consisted of 5 patients undergoing customized bone regeneration procedures, concerned primarily with the successful integration and healing of the augmented bone site without complications such as wound dehiscence or infection. All patients were diagnosed with insufficient bone volume requiring augmentation to support future dental implants, necessitating the use of customized titanium mesh for guided bone regeneration. The MPT was detailed and applied during the customized bone regeneration procedures. Postoperative evaluations included recording complications and using Landry's healing index at intervals of 3, 7, 14, and 30 days post-surgery to assess the technique's performance in early wound closure. The study found that 95.7% of surgery sites experienced uneventful soft tissue healing within the observation period. Only 1 of 23 sites exhibited partial wound dehiscence at postsurgical days 14 and 30, accompanied by mild inflammation. The Landry's healing index increased from 3 ± 0.47 to a final value of 4.69 ± 1.06, indicating substantial improvement in healing over time. The MPT shows promise as an innovative approach for promoting passive and predictable primary wound closure beneath a digitally customized titanium mesh for bone regeneration, demonstrating a high rate of successful healing and minimal complications during the early postoperative phase.

Feasibility of Immediate, Early and Delayed Implant Placement for Single Tooth Replacement in the Premaxilla: A Retrospective Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Study of 100 Cases.

To assess the feasibility of immediate (IIP), early (EIP) and delayed implant placement (DIP) for single tooth replacement in the premaxilla on the basis of the complete indication area of each approach in routine practice. Data from 100 patients (59 women, 41 men, all Caucasians) aged between 19 and 81 years old (mean age 51.71) who had been consecutively treated with a single implant in the premaxilla (13-23) in one private periodontal practice were retrospectively collected. Demographic data, diagnostic information and linear measurements were extracted from patient files and CBCTs. The feasibility of IIP, EIP and DIP was assessed for all cases by both authors, based on the following criteria: availability of apical bone, position of the tooth in relation to the morphology of the alveolar process, buccal bone morphology and presence of midfacial recession. The reasons for not being able to perform an approach, and the viable alternatives for each approach were secondary outcomes. DIP was considered to have been preceded by alveolar ridge preservation (ARP). Ninety-two patients could be treated by means of IIP, EIP or DIP. In eight patients none of these approaches were possible as they required bone augmentation prior to implant placement. Fifty-two patients (95% CI: 42%-62%) could by treated with IIP, 58 (95% CI: 48%-67%) with EIP and 88 (95% CI: 80%-93%) with DIP. The feasibility proportions of IIP and EIP were significantly lower than the one of DIP (p < 0.001). All patients who could be treated with IIP could also be treated with EIP or DIP. Lack of apical bone for implant anchorage was the main reason for not being able to perform IIP and EIP. Complete loss of the buccal bone wall and the need for bone augmentation prior to implant placement were the reasons for not being able to perform DIP. From the results of this retrospective CBCT analysis, DIP is nearly always possible in contrast to IIP and EIP. Therefore, and since it is much easier than IIP and EIP, inexperienced clinicians should mainly focus on ARP and DIP in clinical practice deferring IIP and EIP until more surgical skills have been acquired.