Guided bone regeneration in dental implant treatment using a bioabsorbable membrane

The aim of this study was to evaluate an osteopromotive technique, using a bioabsorbable membrane, for its ability to restitute bone over buccal fenestration and dehiscence defects following fixture installation. 11 patients requiring dental implant treatment and exhibiting sufficient vertical height of the maxilla and compromised bucco-palatal dimensions, as determined clinically and radiographically, were included in the study. 17 Brånemark titanium fixtures were placed with buccal defects which were augmented by a bioabsorbable membrane, Resolut. No complications were observed post-operatively. At 6-8 months, abutment connection was performed, and clinical evaluation of the healed defect area was made. The number of exposed buccal threads at fixture installation (median 8; range 2-19), and abutment connection (median 0; range 0-5), respectively, was compared. Out of the 17 fixtures; 14 exhibited complete coverage with bone, whereas 3 showed some remaining threads. A small punch biopsy taken at abutment connection in an area where the membrane had been placed showed a combination of dense connective tissue and bone. Radiographic evaluation of the marginal periimplant bone level is in progress and results to date show a median bone loss of 1.2 mm after a loading period of 4-6 months. Results show that fixture dehiscence and fenestrations, augmented with this bioabsorbable membrane, demonstrate a highly significant amount of new bone formation.