Linear bone gain and healing complication rate comparative outcomes following ridge augmentation with custom 3D printed titanium mesh vs Ti-reinforced dPTFE. A randomized clinical trial

Aim : The aim of this randomized clinical trial was to compare the qualitative (linear alveolar ridge changes) and quantitative (healing complications) outcomes after guided bone regeneration (GBR) using a custom-made 3D printed titanium mesh versus titanium reinforced dense PTFE membrane for vertical and horizontal augmentation of deficient alveolar ridges. Materials and methods : Forty patients (40 defect sites) were included in the analysis. The patients were divided into two groups – a test group that received custom made Ti mesh and a control group which received a titanium reinforced dense polytetrafluoroethylene membrane. This case series documented consecutive patients treated with vertical bone augmentation to facilitate the future placement of dental implants. The procedure was performed using xenograft and autograft in a ratio of 1:1. Baseline vertical and horizontal deficiencies, acquired bone height and width as well as absolute bone gain (height and width) were recorded radiographically; postoperative complication rate was recorded clinically. Results : The absolute bone height acquired for the test group was 3.65±1.73 mm, and for the control group - 4.24±2.19 mm; the absolute bone width acquired for the test group was 2.48±1.03 mm and for the control group - 2.60±0.82 mm. Postop complication rate was 33.3% for the test group and 38.9% for the control group. Conclusion : The use of a custom-made 3D printed titanium mesh for needs of vertical and horizontal guided bone regeneration showed results comparable to those of – Ti d-PTFE both in terms of height and width gain and complication rate.