Maxillary alveolar ridge reconstruction with monocortical fresh-frozen bone blocks: A clinical, histological and histomorphometric study

Background: This investigation is a clinical and histological assessment of fresh-frozen bone use in the reconstruction of maxillary alveolar ridges. The study evaluates the effectiveness of this material as a bone filler prior the placement of dental implants. Patients and methods: Sixteen patients with atrophic maxillary ridges underwent maxillary reconstruction with fresh-frozen tibial human block grafts prior to implant placement. Sampling procedures were carried out 4, 6 and 9 months later when a bone core was removed from the grafts for histological and histomorphometric analysis. Results: Eighteen blocks were placed, and each patient received either 1 or 2 blocks. During the sampling procedures, all of the grafts were found to be firm in consistency, well-incorporated, and vascularized. A total of 34 implants were placed into the grafts with a minimum of 40-Newton-cm torque in all cases. The follow-up period ranged from 18 to 30 months. No implants were lost. The histological analysis revealed vital bone with mature and compact osseous tissue surrounded by marrow spaces. Conclusion: Bone allografts can be used successfully as graft material for the treatment of maxillary ridge defects. This type of bone graft can be used safely in the areas of implant placement as a suitable alternative to autogenous grafts. (C) 2011 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery.