Relapse in Alveolar Distraction Osteogenesis: An Indication for Overcorrection

The aim of this study was to indicate the necessity of overcorrection regarding the occurrence of bone height relapse at the end of consolidation period in distracted alveolar bone. Eleven patients with a total of 17 distractions performed and 43 implants placed were included in this study. Bone height was evaluated on computed tomography before the procedure and on orthopantomographic radiographs following distraction and consolidation. Measurement was performed on the aproximal surfaces of implants and on identical points before and after distraction. The mean of distraction performed was 6.08 ± 1.82 mm at mesial points and 6.18 ± 1.90 mm at distal points of measurement. The mean of bone relapse following consolidation period was 1.57 ± 1.82 mm at the mesial and 1.79 ± 1.68 mm at the distal aspects of implants. Statistical evaluation revealed that alveolar bone distraction should include 20% of overcorrection for both mesial and distal points of measurements plus 0.34 mm for mesial and 0.52 mm for distal points of measurement. Occurrence of relapse found in this study indicates that overcorrection should be included when performing alveolar distraction osteogenesis.