Clinical Outcomes of rhBMP-2-Loaded Collagen Sponge for Alveolar Ridge Preservation: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Alveolar bone resorption after tooth extraction presents a significant clinical challenge.
• Existing ridge preservation techniques have limitations in fully restoring bone dimensions.
• Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) delivered via absorbable collagen sponge (ACS) shows potential for bone augmentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of ACS combined with rhBMP-2 for alveolar ridge preservation.
• To assess the maintenance of ridge dimensions following tooth extraction using this intervention.

Main Methods:

• A pilot randomized controlled trial involving 11 participants and 16 extraction sites.
• Participants were randomized to either ACS/rhBMP-2 intervention or control (empty socket) groups.
• Alveolar ridge dimensions were assessed using cone-beam computed tomography at baseline and 4, 8, and 12 weeks post-extraction.

Main Results:

• In vitro assays demonstrated a gradual, sustained release of rhBMP-2 from the ACS carrier over 13 days.
• At 12 weeks, the ACS/rhBMP-2 group showed significantly less vertical reduction in buccal bone height (1.80 mm) compared to the control group.
• No significant differences were observed between groups for palatal/lingual bone reduction or overall bucco-lingual ridge width changes.

Conclusions:

• The combination of ACS and rhBMP-2 is an effective method for preserving buccal bone height after tooth extraction.
• This approach mitigates buccal bone resorption, preserving critical vertical bone dimensions.
• The intervention may reduce the need for subsequent bone augmentation procedures prior to dental implant placement.