Bone changes following horizontal bone augmentation with resorbable and non-resorbable membranes: a retrospective...

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Periodontology
• Oral Surgery

Background:

• Alveolar bone augmentation (ABA) is crucial for dental implant success.
• Limited studies compare non-resorbable (NRM) and resorbable (RCM) membranes in horizontal ABA.
• This study addresses this gap by comparing bone changes using NRM and RCM.

Purpose of the Study:

• To radiologically compare bone changes (BC) between NRM and RCM in horizontal ABA.
• To identify factors influencing bone changes during horizontal ABA.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans (T0 and T1).
• Two groups: horizontal ABA with RCM and/or NRM.
• Radiographic measurements included ridge width, height, angulation, and bone changes at various levels from the alveolar crest.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant difference in horizontal bone changes between NRM and RCM groups.
• Membrane stabilization, initial ridge angulation, and cortical bone thickness significantly affected bone changes.
• Preoperative concavity depth and coronal cortical bone thickness showed a limited association with bone gain.

Conclusions:

• Non-resorbable membranes may offer superior stabilization at the alveolar crest.
• Preoperative radiographic evaluation of angles and measurements is important for predicting bone changes.
• Further prospective studies with homogeneous groups are recommended.