Augmentation of the atrophic maxillary alveolar ridge with hydroxyapatite granules in a Vicryl (polyglactin 910) knitted tube and simultaneous open vestibuloplasty.

Abstract

A modified technique for augmentation of the severely atrophic edentulous maxillary alveolar ridge is described. The augmentation was carried out using a knitted polyglactin 910 mesh tube filled with porous hydroxyapatite granules, the tube being inserted through the access achieved by an open vestibuloplasty. The results of an in-vivo animal study showed that the absorption of the mesh was complete between 49 and 70 days. The clinical study included 11 patients in all of whom there was severe maxillary ridge atrophy and major prosthetic problems; follow-up was for a mean of 25 months. The procedure was without significant complication and produced a mean immediate absolute augmentation of 5.5 mm and substantially increased vestibular depth. A gradual reduction of ridge height was found over time. Nevertheless all patients showed significantly increased ability to wear their dentures. The technique is presented as a safe and predictable alternative to the use of bone grafts and titanium implants in these severely atrophic cases.