A digital in situ bone augmentation workflow for reconstructing the alveolar ridge outline using a modified shell...

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Periodontology
• Dental Implantology

Background:

• The traditional shell technique is used for alveolar bone augmentation but has drawbacks.
• These include donor site morbidity and imprecise bone graft harvesting.
• A second surgical site is typically required for bone graft procurement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a modified shell technique for in situ bone augmentation.
• To utilize the root area at the defect site as the in situ donor site.
• To assess the controllability and potential for enhanced bone augmentation.

Main Methods:

• A digitally designed bone harvest guide was developed.
• The modified shell technique was planned and executed using the root area as the in situ donor site.
• This workflow aimed to streamline the bone augmentation procedure.

Main Results:

• The in situ approach eliminated the need for a second surgical site.
• The use of a digitally designed guide facilitated a controllable harvesting procedure.
• The modified technique showed potential for effective bone augmentation.

Conclusions:

• The modified shell technique with an in situ donor site is a viable alternative.
• Digital planning and guides enhance the controllability of the procedure.
• This technique may improve outcomes in alveolar bone augmentation.