title: Three-dimensional evaluation of the different donor sites of the mandible for autologous bone grafts.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  For effective placement of endosseous implants, a sufficient volume of bone is required at the recipient site. The aim of this study is to evaluate the density and maximum amount of harvestable bone graft required from the mandible symphysis, coronoid process, and ascending ramus, depending on dentition.
  
  
  METHODS
  CT data from 42 patients (13 females and 29 males) in DICOM format were read using special planning software. Three different virtual bone grafts were created, and the dimension outcomes, surface, volume, and density were measured in a dentate group (n = 22) and a total edentulous group (n = 20).
  
  
  RESULTS
  Comparisons between corresponding bone grafts showed no difference for the symphysis and coronoid process in relation to dentition, and no difference in bone density was observed. However, significant changes between the average values of the ramus were found between the two groups (p < 0.0001).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Appropriate software and CT data can deliver more accurate examinations of the mandible in relation to potential donor sites. Atrophy primarily affects the ascending ramus; the symphysis and coronoid process are only slightly influenced.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Using appropriate software in conjunction with implant planning, it is possible to analyze potential donor areas within the jaw and create virtual bone grafts.
authors.affiliation: Department of Oral, Maxillofacial and Plastic Facial Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany, smoehlhenrich@ukaachen.de.
authors.forename: Stephan Christian
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: Möhlhenrich
authors.forename: Nicole
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Heussen
authors.forename: Nassim
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Ayoub
authors.forename: Frank
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Hölzle
authors.forename: Ali
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Modabber
mesh_terms: D016025:Bone Transplantation; D006801:Humans; D008334:Mandible / Q000601:surgery*; D014019:Tissue Donors