[A new three-dimensional scale in the evaluation of the secondary alveolar bone grafting].

OBJECTIVE: To propose a new three-dimensional method or grading scale in the evaluation of the secondary alveolar bone grafting, thus modifying the Bergland grading scale. METHODS: A total of 40 patients (26 male, 14 female) with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP), who underwent secondary alveolar bone grafting at least 3 months ago, were enrolled. Regional cone-beam CT (CBCT) scans were taken to evaluate the height and thickness of the postoperative bone bridges. A new three-dimensional grafting scale was established, including four grades respectively in alveolar height and thickness. RESULTS: According to the new three-dimensional scale in this study, 15 grafted sites were rated grade T-I or T-II in the alveolar thickness among 18 sites of grade H-I in height, and 10 among 15 of grade H-II in height. Therefore, 25 grafted sites were considered as clinical success in the alveolar thickness (grade T-I or T-II) among 33 sites with clinical success in alveolar height (grade H-I and H-II). There were 24% of 33 sites with clinical success in height, which were considered as clinical failure in the alveolar thickness. CONCLUSIONS: It is necessary to establish a new three-dimensional method or grading scale for evaluating the secondary alveolar bone grafting. The three-dimensional scale can take comprehensive view of the bone-grafted alveolar clefts and thus modify the Bergland grading scale.