Effect of decalcified freeze-dried bone allograft on the healing of jaw defects after cyst enucleation.
OBJECTIVE
This study radiographically evaluated the changes that occur in jaw defects after enucleation of cysts and either grafting with demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft (DFDBA) or packing with absorbable gelatine sponge (Gelfoam).


METHODS
Thirty-two patients (14 males, 18 females) with cystic lesions of the jaws were divided into two groups. Group A underwent enucleation and bone grafting with DFDBA. Group B underwent enucleation and packing with Gelfoam. Both groups were evaluated radiographically before surgery, immediately postoperatively, and 6, 12, 24, and 36 months postoperatively. The density of the area was measured with a digital densitometer.


RESULTS
The density in group A was significantly (P < .05 to .01) greater than in group B at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. The difference at 24 months was not significant. Group A reached density levels at 6 months that were reached by group B at 12 months.


CONCLUSIONS
The findings demonstrate that decalcified freeze-dried bone allograft enhances bone healing in jaw defects after cyst removal.
Bodner
L
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Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Soroka Medical Center, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001861:Bone Regeneration; D016025:Bone Transplantation / Q000379:methods*; D003648:Decalcification Technique; D003803:Dentigerous Cyst / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D005612:Freeze Drying; D005781:Gelatin Sponge, Absorbable; D006801:Humans; D007570:Jaw Cysts / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010509:Periodontal Cyst / Q000601:surgery; D011842:Radicular Cyst / Q000601:surgery; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014945:Wound Healing