In situ reversed bone shell technique in alveolar ridge augmentation: A case report with two-year follow-up

ABSTRACT Background: Resorption of the alveolar bone often hinders dental implant placement in the ideal position and the long-term stability of dental implants. Purpose: This study aimed to introduce a modified in situ reversed bone shell (ISRBS) technique of alveolar ridge augmentation. Case Presentation: A 37-year-old female patient presented for treatment of a missing mandibular tooth and severe horizontal bone defect. An autogenous bone shell was harvested in situ, reoriented, and fixed in situ with a titanium screw, leaving a space for a mixture of autogenous bone chips and xenogeneic particulate bone graft material. A concentrated growth factor membrane and a bioresorbable barrier membrane were used for bone augmentation. At 6 months post-surgery, sufficient osseous regeneration had occurred, and the implant was placed in an ideal position. At the 2-year follow-up after crown delivery, the implant remained clinically functional, the peri-implant soft tissue appeared healthy, and CBCT showed maintenance of the augmented ridge contour. Conclusions: In this single case, the ISRBS technique showed technical feasibility for staged horizontal ridge augmentation in a severe localized mandibular ridge defect. Further clinical studies are required to evaluate its reproducibility and comparative effectiveness.