Clinical and Histological Results of Vertical Ridge Augmentation of Atrophic Posterior Mandible with Inlay Technique of Cancellous Equine Bone Blocks

AIM: We want to evaluate a new bone block material in the inlay technique, for the vertical bone augmentation of a posterior atrophic mandible, in order to perfom aesthetic and prosthetic rehabilitation and enable implant insertion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Inlay technique and the subsequent successful implant rehabilitation in the atrophic right posterior mandible in a 42-year-old woman, was completed using a cancellous equine bone block as grafting material. RESULTS: Three months after surgical procedure both clinical and histological aspects show complete integration of the biomaterial with the surrounding bone and three dental implants were placed. Computed tomography and conventional radiography showed a 5mm mean vertical bone gain. CONCLUSION: Cancellous equine bone grafts may be an effective alternative to autogenous bone and/or inorganic bovine bone for reconstruction of the posterior mandible using inlay technique.