Localized ridge defect augmentation using human pericardium membrane and demineralized bone matrix.

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Alveolar ridge defects pose challenges for dental implant placement.
• Inadequate bone volume necessitates bone augmentation procedures.
• This study investigated a novel biomaterial for ridge augmentation.

Observation:

• Cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) revealed insufficient bone width and height for implants.
• Extraction sockets showed poor healing with limited bone regeneration after four months.
• A patient required augmentation in the lower left first molar and second premolar regions.

Findings:

• Ridge augmentation using demineralized bone matrix (DBM) putty with chips and a human pericardium (HP) allograft membrane was performed.
• Significant bone volume increase was observed: 4.8 mm horizontally and 6.8 mm vertically within seven months.
• CBCT and intraoral periapical radiographs demonstrated successful bone regeneration and minimal crestal bone loss one year post-implant.

Implications:

• Human pericardium allograft membranes show clinical feasibility for augmenting localized alveolar ridge defects.
• This regenerative approach supports subsequent dental implant placement in compromised bone sites.
• The combination of HP allograft and DBM offers a promising solution for complex dental reconstructions.