Distraction implants: a new operative technique for alveolar ridge augmentation.

In the past alveolar ridge augmentation was mainly based on autologous or allogenic bone transplants. Since 1996 alveolar ridge distraction has enabled local osseous build-up without bone transplantation. The 'distraction implant', uniting qualities of a distraction apparatus with those of a dental implant, has been in use for three years at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Graz University. Its application in patients with alveolar ridge atrophy and other defects is demonstrated and the first results are presented in this study. Three patients with severe alveolar ridge atrophy of the edentulous mandible, three with extensive alveolar ridge defects and three with local alveolar defects following traumatic loss of a single tooth were treated with distraction implants. Segmental osteotomy was carried out in all patients and one or two distraction implants were positioned. Following this alveolar ridge distraction was carried out. In seven cases there were no complications, whereas in one patient distraction was discontinued, and altogether two distraction implants had to be removed. All complications were treated by conventional operative techniques. Fifteen of 17 distraction implants were loaded successfully. Alveolar ridge distraction by means of distraction implants is an adequate method of alveolar ridge augmentation resulting in improved implant sites and gingival conditions. The segment for distraction should not be smaller than an upper central incisor. The implants can be used for prosthetic treatment, but long-term results are still not finalised.