Comparison of two techniques for lateral ridge augmentation in mandible with ramus block graft

The purpose of this manuscript was to assess mandibular ramus block grafts used for augmentation of mandibular posterior segments, followed by subsequent implant placement. Twenty-four human subjects in need of lateral ridge mandibular augmentation were included in the current patient series. Inclusion criteria: recipient site had at least 10-mm residual height, but less than 4.3-mm bucco-lingual dimension. Autogenous bone blocks were harvested from the mandibular ramus. In the first group ramus block was used in association with platelet-rich fibrin and in the second in association with pericardium membrane. Implant surgery was performed 4 months after bone graft surgery when a total number of 44 implants were placed. Abutments were placed 4 months after implant surgery followed by final restoration. Ramus bone graft was successful in 100% patients for the first group and in 91.67% patients for the second group. Measurement on cone beam computed tomography revealed an average of 5.35mm of lateral ridge augmentation for group 1 and 5.099mm for group 2, achieved 4 months after surgery. All implants placed received fixed prosthetic restorations and are in use. Ramus block grafts can be used to allow optimal implant placement, with favor long-term success. Lateral ridge augmentation using mandibular ramus bone graft in association with platelet-rich fibrin is a more predictable and successful technique.