Regeneration and enlargement of jaw bone using guided tissue regeneration

The purpose of this study was to present the surgical procedures and the clinical results of guided tissue regeneration (GTR) treatment aimed at regenerating local jaw bone in situations where the anatomy of the ridge did not allow the placement of dental implants. 12 patients were selected for ridge enlargement or bony defect regeneration. A combined split- and full-thickness flap was raised in areas designated for subsequent implant placement. Following perforation of the cortical bone to create a bleeding bone surface, a PTFE membrane was adjusted to the surgical site in such a way that a secluded space was created between the membrane and the subjacent bone surface in order to increase the width of the ridge or to regenerate bony defects present. Complete tension-free closure of the soft tissue flap was emphasized. Following a healing period of 6 to 10 months, reopening procedures were performed and the gain of bone dimension was assessed. In 9 patients with 12 potential implant sites, a sufficient bone volume was obtained to allow subsequent implant placement. The gain of new bone formation varied between 1.5 and 5.5 mm. In 3 patients, acute infections developed which necessitated early removal of the membranes and no bone regeneration could be achieved. The results of the study indicate that the biological principle of GTR is highly predictable for ridge enlargement or defect regeneration under the prerequisite of a complication-free healing.