Efficacy of Customized Zirconia Sheet vs PTFE as a Non-resorbable Barrier in Maxillary Alveolar Ridge Augmentation

The study protocol demonstrates a comprehensive approach to alveolar ridge augmentation for implant placement. By utilizing 3D patient individualized zirconia barriers and TI PTFE (Titanium Reinforced Polytetrafluoroethylene) membranes, the researchers aim to compare the efficacy of these techniques in achieving successful bone gain. The preoperative evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and CBCT, ensures that patients meet the inclusion criteria and allows for accurate planning and design of the barriers. The use of specialized software for barrier design and a computer-aided milling machine for fabrication further enhances the precision and customization of the barriers. Sterilization procedures are meticulously outlined, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the zirconia barriers.

The surgical procedure involves careful flap reflection, autogenous graft harvesting, and placement and fixation of the barriers over mixture of Autogenous graft and xenograft particles . In Group I, the TI PTFE membrane is shaped and pre-bent on a 3D printed augmented model then fixed over the graft and alveolar defect to adapt to the alveolar defect, providing a protective barrier for the graft. In Group II, the initial try-in of the zirconia barrier allows for adjustments to ensure a proper fit and tension-free primary closure. Finally the zirconia membrane is placed over the harvested bone in the recipient site. Both barriers are fixed with bone screws at well marked computer guided positions ensuring the safety of neighboring teeth and vital structures.

The evaluation process involves cone beam CT and clinical assessment at specific intervals to evaluate bone gain, soft tissue inflammation, infection, and dehiscence. The use of 3D models and software allows for accurate volumetric analysis and measurement of the alveolar ridge dimensions, providing valuable data for evaluation.

In conclusion, this study protocol demonstrates a meticulous and comprehensive approach to alveolar ridge augmentation.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients should be free from any relevant systemic disease that would contraindicate surgical intervention or affect bone healing.
• Patients with single or multiple missing teeth with vertical alveolar defect or severe horizontal defect or both types of defects, preventing placement of any implant or prosthetic appliance in maxilla.
• Clinically apparent increase in interarch space relative to the adjacent alveolar teeth.

Exclusion criteria

• History of uncontrolled medical disorders.
• History of systemic diseases or medication that alter bone metabolism.
• Poor oral hygiene.
• Heavy smoker (more than ten cigarettes/day) or alcoholic patients.
• Chemotherapy or Radiation therapy to the head and neck region in the 12 months prior to the proposed therapy.
• Patients currently on or with a history of bisphosphonate therapy.