Three-dimensional comprehensive evaluation of unilateral alveolar cleft bone grafting with iliac bone and chin bone blocks

Abstract

In this study, we aimed to provide guidance for selecting bone grafting materials in cases of alveolar clefts. Twenty-nine patients with unilateral complete alveolar clefts were categorized into three groups based on the bone grafting material used: Group A (iliac bone block grafts), Group B (iliac cancellous bone grafts), and Group C (chin bone block grafts). Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) data were analyzed using Mimics 19.0 software. Results showed that Group A had the highest bone formation rate, with significant differences observed between Groups A and B, as well as between Groups B and C. Group A and Group C had the highest proportion of Type I in volume assessment, while Group B had the highest proportion of Type III, Significant differences were observed in the distribution of volume assessment scores among the three groups. Bone height measurement results indicated that buccal-side measurement points had a higher proportion of Type I bone height than palatal-side measurement points. Bone width measurement results showed that Type I bone width was highest in Group C, while Type IV bone width was highest in Group B. Significant differences were observed in the distribution of implanted bone width among the three groups. Total grafting scores indicated that Types A and D were predominant in Groups A and C, while Group B had the highest proportion of Type D. Significant differences were observed in the distribution of total grafting scores among the three groups. The comprehensive evaluation method provides accurate assessment of alveolar cleft bone grafting outcomes and is applicable in clinical settings. Based on the results, we consider both iliac bone blocks and chin bone blocks as suitable materials for alveolar cleft bone grafting. Grafting material selection should consider preoperative gap volume measured using CBCT, required bone quantity, donor site complications, and overall clinical needs.