Use of Titanium Mesh in Lieu of a Fixation Screw to Stabilize an Autogenous Block Graft: A Case Report
Localized alveolar augmentation is carried out either before, during, or sometimes after implant placement. The placement of autogenous graft as a block or a particulate alone or in combination with anorganic bone mineral has been practiced with a great deal of success. The block graft is secured in place with a screw and protected by a membrane. This case report describes the treatment of a female patient with a bucco-lingual bone deficiency grafted with autogenous block and a titanium mesh. Five months later, implant was placed in the grafted area. The definitive prosthesis was cemented 6 months later and followed up for 2 years.

Figure 1. Preoperative view. Figure 2. Outline of the graft at the donor site. Figure 3. Titanium mesh tucked under the palatal flap and the recipient bed decorticated. Figure 4. Titanium mesh contoured and adapted over the graft. Figure 5. Primary closure attained at the donor and the recipient sites.

Figure 6. Radiograph showing the mesh and the graft. Figure 7. Implant placed at the grafted sites 5 months after the surgery. Figure 8. Second-stage procedure done and the final abutment placed.

Figure 9. Temporary restoration placed. Figure 10. Well-healed tissues before cementation. Figure 11. Final restorations placed. Figure 12. Radiographic image immediately after the cementation of the final restorations. Figure 13. Clinical picture at the 2-year follow-up. Figure 14. Radiographic image 2 years after the restorations.
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