Reconstruction of a Unilateral Alveolar Cleft Using a Customized Allogenic Bone Block and Subsequent Dental Implant Placement in an Adult Patient

Abstract

Cleft lip and palate is the most common congenital deformity with severe effects on the quality of life of affected patients. The deformity often includes an alveolar cleft (AC). In most cases, osteoplasty will be performed using autogenous bone transplants harvested from the iliac crest. Thus, this treatment represents a highly invasive procedure. With freeze-dried bone allografts (FDBAs) becoming an increasingly accepted alternative to autogenous bone grafting for several indications, their application might also be suitable for AC reconstruction. We present the use of a customized allogenic bone block in a guided bone regeneration procedure for reconstruction of a unilateral AC and the successful insertion of dental implants after a healing period of 6 months. The use of FDBA seems to represent a successful treatment option for AC reconstruction. The allogenic bone block demonstrated high volume stability with ideal integration and revascularization, resulting in functional bone tissue suitable for implantation and esthetic rehabilitation. Nevertheless, further investigations, especially concerning the long-term stability of the augmented bone and dental implants, are needed to draw definite conclusion regarding the performance of allogenic bone blocks in orofacial cleft osteoplasty.