Vertical ridge augmentation using the modified shell technique--a case series.

Vertical defects of the alveolar crest often restrict the placement of implants. The outcome of vertical augmentation is unpredictable so we aimed to develop a technique that has predictable results. We used autogenous grafts trimmed to shells less than 1mm thick to rebuild the vertical dimensions of the alveolar ridge. The shells were fixed with microscrews and the vertical space between the shell and the residual bone was filled with autogenous particulate bone. Vertical dimensions before and after augmentation were measured and descriptive statistics calculated. A total of 17 patients (10 female, 7 male, mean (SD) age 46 (17) years) had 18 sites augmented (2 sites in one patient). In 2 cases the wound dehisced and healing was by secondary intention. The rest healed uneventfully. The mean (SD) vertical defect was 4.7 (1.4) mm and mean (SD) resorption during consolidation was 0.5 (0.7) mm. All 30 previously planned implants were placed, and none failed during the first year. Loading was monitored for a mean (SD) period of 14.6 (10.5) months. The technique showed promising results and could be an alternative to procedures that use extraoral donor sites.