A Transporter Guide for Cortical Plate Placement in the Split Bone Block Technique. A Technical Report and Case...

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Digital Dentistry

Background:

• Complex bone defects and augmentation procedures present challenges in graft handling and stabilization, particularly with the Split Bone Block Technique (SBBT).
• Digital technologies offer advanced solutions for bone regeneration and augmentation, addressing current procedural complexities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case series evaluating a novel method for transporting cortical bone blocks using a specialized guide.
• To assess surgical and post-surgical complications and bone gain associated with this technique.

Main Methods:

• A case series of six patients utilizing a custom-designed transporter guide created with CAD/CAM and 3D printing.
• Evaluation of graft stability, complications, and bone augmentation, with analysis of postoperative CBCT scans.

Main Results:

• Postoperative CBCT scans showed minimal discrepancies between planned and achieved outcomes.
• The transporter guide streamlined the surgical workflow and reduced intraoperative errors, with slightly higher variation noted in the mesial region.

Conclusions:

• The transporter guide enhances safety and predictability in SBBT procedures.
• Improved precision in graft positioning and stabilization reduces surgical complexity for bone augmentation.