[Results after short- and long-term observations of bone transplantation to vertical, marginal bone defects]

The effect of autologue bone transplantation to 26 vertical, marginal bone defects has been investigated on a long-term scale ranging from 2 to 26 years. The operation technique included excision of gingival pocket epithelium, removal of granulation tissue, and cleansing of the root surface with scalers. The bone cavities were filled preferably with cancellous bone chips, usually from the patients' upper third molar region. After suturing, the area was covered with a wound paste for 12-14 days. Loosened teeth were splinted for at least 2 months. In 25 of 26 teeth (96%) a bone regeneration was observed radiographically. The maximum healing of 22 cases occurred 2-12 months (median 6 months) postoperatively (Table 1). The maximum healing was maintained for more than half of the teeth (56%) at the last control, median 16 years (range 2-26 years), and none of these teeth were extracted of periodontal causes. They might therefore be expected to function for still a long time. Eight teeth (32%) showed more or less recurrence when controlled 5 to 15 years (median 10 years) after operation and 6 of the 8 teeth with recurrence were extracted. Three teeth (12%) developed root resorption and were extracted 6, 10 and 14 years postoperatively. As most of the complications occurred after extended observation periods, this factor has to be taken into account when prognosis of periodontal treatment procedure is considered.