Ridge augmentation using demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft with barrier membrane and cortical columns

Ridge augmentation can be achieved with a number of approaches. Demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft (DFDBA) has been extensively used, often with controversial results. This article presents a case in which a combination of DFDBA, cortical columns, and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane is used to expand a deficient ridge. After 8 months of healing, the edentulous ridge was successfully augmented for implant placement. Histologic and histomorphometric analysis of bone cores harvested from the augmented site showed new bone formation around the DFDBA particles and the cortical columns with lamellar bone formation.