Implant site development using ridge splitting techniques.
Ridge splitting is a useful surgical technique for preparation of the edentulous ridge for implant placement or interpositional bone grafting. This approach is limited to enhancing ridge width and is more applicable to the maxilla. The cortical plates of the residual ridge are carefully split and expanded to accommodate implant insertion or bone graft materials. A significant advantage of this technique is that it allows simultaneous implant placement rather than staging the reconstruction. This article discusses indications, limitations, patient evaluation, surgical approaches, and complications associated with ridge splitting techniques.
Misch
Craig M
CM
Department of Implant Dentistry, New York University School of Dentistry, 345 East 24th Street, New York, NY 10010, USA. misch@bonegraft.com