Simultaneous implant placement and vertical ridge augmentation with a titanium-reinforced membrane: a case report

The present report demonstrates a clinical approach to achieve vertical ridge augmentation around endosseous implants. Two implants were placed, leaving the threads exposed, in the atrophic mandibular right posterior quadrant of a male patient. Both implants were covered with a titanium-reinforced expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (e-PTFE) membrane. Second-stage surgery was performed 12 months after implant placement. Upon membrane removal, growth of mineralized tissue was observed around both implants, covering areas previously not covered by bone. Implants were then progressively loaded and restored. Titanium-reinforced e-PTFE membranes can be satisfactorily used for vertical augmentation of atrophic ridges.