Novel early vertical ridge augmentation technique

Background/purpose

Multiple augmentation protocols are documented in the literature to rebuild the deficient alveolar ridge after tooth extraction; however, achieving adequate vertical augmentation remains the most challenging goal. This study demonstrated a novel surgical technique of early vertical ridge augmentation for post-dental extraction. This technique offers several biological and technical advantages regarding the timing of the procedure and its relative simplicity compared to other complex techniques.

Materials and methods

This retrospective study consisted of 50 extraction sites from 44 participants who had received early vertical ridge augmentation (VRA) procedures (6–16 weeks post-extraction in either the maxilla or the mandible). The procedures were carried out using titanium tenting screws, freeze-dried bone allografts (FDBA), and xenografts (bovine). Pre- and post-operative cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were taken for all participants 6–9 months after the augmentation surgery to measure the vertical bone gained.

Results

A total of 44 patients were treated with early VRA 6–16 weeks post-dental extraction. The total mean vertical bone gain measured after 6–9 months of augmentation for all cases was 4.64 ± 1.76 mm with no complications encountered. About 80 % of augmented sites met or exceeded the expected vertical bone gain (EVBG). Delaying vertical ridge augmentation until after eight weeks post-extraction, particularly beyond twelve weeks, results in higher rates of EVBG and more consistent average bone gain.

Conclusion

This study indicates that VRA can be achieved predictably by utilizing the early VRA technique, which is relatively straightforward and is associated with a minimal complication.