Alveolar distraction osteogenesis versus autogenous onlay bone graft for vertical augmentation of severely atrophied alveolar ridges after 12 years of long-term follow-up

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate alveolar distraction osteogenesis (ADO) and autogenous onlay bone graft (AOBG) procedures by comparing their long-term results and their ability to correct severe vertical alveolar defects for further rehabilitation. Study Design Fourteen patients treated with ADO and 28 patients treated with AOBG were included in this study. Radiographic measurements of alveolar bone heights over time and the implant survival and success were compared for the 2 groups. Results The vertical bone gain was 8.4 ± 2.6 mm for ADO and 6.5 ± 2.3 mm for AOBG. After a mean follow-up period of 7.1 years, there was no significant difference between the 2 groups regarding alveolar bone heights over time and implant survival and success (P >.05). The cumulative survival and success rates were 97.3%, 92.7% in the ADO group and 94.1%, 90.2% in the AOBG group, respectively. Conclusion Both ADO and AOBG may be reliable and effective for ridge augmentation procedures of severe vertical alveolar bone defects and subsequent dental rehabilitation using implants.