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Published on: December 22, 2015
Secondary alveolar bone grafting: An outcome analysis
Ananth S Murthy1, James A Lehman
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Children's Hospital Medical Center of Akron, Akron, Ohio, USA.
Summary
Secondary alveolar bone grafting using iliac crest bone provides excellent outcomes for cleft lip and palate patients. This method demonstrates good graft take with minimal complications, making it a reliable surgical option.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
- Pediatric Dentistry
Background:
- Secondary alveolar bone grafting is a crucial procedure in managing cleft lip and palate (CLP) deformities.
- Optimal timing and technique are essential for successful graft integration and dental arch continuity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of secondary alveolar bone grafting in patients with unilateral and bilateral cleft lip and palate.
- To assess graft success rates and identify potential complications associated with the procedure.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective chart review of 70 consecutive patients undergoing secondary alveolar bone grafting by a single surgeon.
- Graft success was evaluated using periapical radiographs at least six months post-surgery, assessed with the Enemark grading system.
Main Results:
- The study analyzed graft take in 70 patients with unilateral and bilateral CLP. Graft success levels varied, with no statistically significant difference between unilateral and bilateral cleft types.
- Complications included infection, fistula, pain, and graft exposure leading to failure. Two patients required reoperation for bone grafting.
Conclusions:
- Secondary alveolar bone grafting utilizing the iliac crest as a donor site yields excellent results in CLP patients.
- The iliac crest donor site is associated with minimal morbidity and high success rates for alveolar bone reconstruction.
