[Alveolar ridge augmentation with hydroxylapatite. A clinical evaluation]

In a retrospective study on the effects of an absolute augmentation of the atrophic alveolar ridge with hydroxylapatite, the patient satisfaction rate with the present denture and the loss in height of the augmentation were assessed. Most patients indicated an improved functioning with their dentures after the operation; nevertheless, the patient satisfaction rate was lower than expected. Additionally a concerned loss in height of the augmentation was demonstrated over the evaluation period of 3.5 years. In selected cases, however, the hydroxylapatite augmentation of the atrophic alveolar ridge may still have its value in preprosthetic surgery.