Background: Atrophic alveolar bone presents a unique difficulty, preventing correct implant placement and affecting long-term results. Different techniques are recommended to restore the proper length of the posterior ridge of the mandible and thus achieve proper form and function, one of those is distraction osteogenesis. Refinements in the technique can improve the treatment outcome and decrease postoperative complications.
Aim of this study: this study evaluated the efficiency of guided alveolar distraction devices in the treatment of the posterior atrophic mandible.
Patients and Methods: Seven patients with atrophic posterior mandible were included in the study and treated with a guided alveolar distraction device. Patients were examined preoperative and evaluated clinically, and radiographically immediately postoperative, post-activation and 3 months post-activation to calculate the length gained and bone density at the distracted area.
Result: There was a statistically significant difference in the length gained between evaluation times as well as a statistically significant difference in bone density at the distracted area through the study periods.
Conclusion: alveolar distraction osteogenesis provides significant vertical ridge augmentation while simultaneously expanding soft tissue. The use of surgical guides to guide the osteotomies and to put the distractor on the preplanned holes accurately increased the accuracy of the operation and decreased the postoperative complications