Vertical alveolar distraction osteogenesis is an efficient method for augmentation prior to inserting dental implants. But a relapse of the transport segment and decrease in bone height before implant placement is common. In this study, we evaluated this alveolar distraction osteogenesis before implant placement, investigated the relapse in bone height.

The subjects were 25 patients, ranged in age from 21 to 52 years with the defect of the mandible. In all cases we treated by vertical alveolar distraction osteogenesis. Active distraction was started after a latency period of 3 days with a rate of 0.5 mm twice daily. After the end of alveolar distraction osteogenesis, length of consolidation was 3 months, and distractors were removed. Bone height was measured on digital orthopantomographic radiographs, after distraction and before implant placement. Mean alveolar distraction was 11.5 mm. The mean relapse was 21% (13–27%)after the end of consolidation. 1 month after distractor removal, 10 patients were performed implant placement (Group A). The mean relapse was 5% (1–7%) at implant placement. On the other hand, 15 patients were performed distractor removal and implant placement at the same time (Group B).

The vertical alveolar distraction osteogenesis before dental implant placement is very useful but a considerable relapse must be confronted. This study indicated that implant placement performed at the same time of distractor removal if possible, and the need for overcorrection was more than 27%. In Group A, the need for overcorrection was more than Group B, more than 34%.

Conflict of interest: None declared.