Ridge Augmentation with Autogenous Bone Graft and Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Membrane using Tenting Screw: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: The study aims to compare non-tenting screw and tenting with a reinforced expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) membrane in horizontal ridge augmentation using an autogenous bone graft. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted between 150 patients needing dental implants. The participants were randomly divided into three study groups; group 1: ridge augmentation using non-resorbable ePTFE membrane only, group2: ridge augmentation using an ePTFE and tenting screw with bone graft Bio-Oss mixed with autogenous bone particles and group 3 (control): ridge augmentation with a bone block. The initial measurement was done at the bone crest at the exact implant site and 10 mm apical to the bone crest. Repeat measurements were recorded after 6 months of healing. Statistical analysis was performed by paired sample t-test and two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Statistical significance was considered at p <0.05. RESULTS: There was a significant gain in the bone in all the three groups postsurgery. Group 3 recorded higher reading at the crest and apical sites when compared to groups 1 and 2 at 6 months (late measurements). The difference in the percentage gain was statistically significant after adjusting for age as well as the initial measurement. The highest gain was seen in group 3 followed by groups 2 and 1. CONCLUSION: The membrane with tenting screw group and block bone groups had a significantly higher increase in measurement when compared to the membrane only group. Tenting screw with Bio-Oss can be used in patients with autogenous bone at the donor site. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Tenting screws in combination with membranes can be used to overcome the limitations posed by the use of membranes alone. It is also a useful method for a patient not consenting for block graft for any medical reason.