Alveolar ridge augmentation with collagen tubes containing bone and hydroxylapatite

The use of collagen tube containers with implants of an autogenous bone and particulate hydroxylapatite composite is reported. The tubes were used to shape the mixture and to facilitate its implantation in cases of severe mandibular resorption. Following a minimum of 60 months after implant placement and a minimum of 48 months of denture wear, the implant and overall prosthodontic success were rated favorably by the patient and the prosthodontist. Individual implants were evaluated with polarized and fluorescent light microscopy and with microradiography. While the clinical results were good, the microscopic evaluation showed the amount of bone present within the implant to be variable.