Long term ridge augmentation with rib graft

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Bone Grafting Techniques

Background:

• Mandibular bone resorption presents challenges in reconstructive surgery.
• Existing thin mandibles are susceptible to further bone loss.
• Alternative grafting methods may have limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of transoral rib grafting for mandibular bone augmentation.
• To assess functional improvements following the procedure.
• To determine the long-term outcomes of this grafting technique.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of ten cases undergoing transoral rib grafting.
• Assessment of bone augmentation at the graft site.
• Evaluation of functional outcomes post-surgery.

Main Results:

• Bone augmentation was observed in all ten cases.
• The augmentation persisted over a three-to-six-year follow-up period.
• Functional improvements were noted in all patients.

Conclusions:

• Transoral rib grafting demonstrates potential for bone augmentation in thin mandibles.
• The procedure offers functional benefits and halts further resorption.
• It serves as a valuable holding procedure for selected patients.