Abstract
OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this preliminary study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a customized, three-dimensional, preformed titanium mesh as a barrier membrane for peri-implant alveolar bone regeneration. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten patients were recruited for this study. At the time of implant placement, all patients had fenestration or a dehiscence defect around the implant fixture. A mixture of particulate intraoral autologous bone and freeze-dried bone allograft was applied to the defect in a 1 : 1 volume ratio and covered by the preformed titanium mesh. A core biopsy specimen was taken from the regenerated bone four months postoperatively. Patients were followed for 12 months after the definitive prosthesis was placed. RESULTS: Satisfactory bone regeneration with limited fibrous tissue was detected beneath the preformed titanium mesh. Histologic findings revealed that newly formed bones were well-incorporated into the allografts and connective tissue. New growth was composed of approximately 80% vital bone, 5% fibrous marrow tissue, and 15% remaining allograft. All implants were functional without any significant complications. CONCLUSION: The use of preformed titanium mesh may support bone regeneration by maintaining space for new bone growth through its macro-pores. This preliminary study presents the efficacy of a preformed titanium mesh as a ready-to-use barrier membrane around peri-implant alveolar bone defect. This preformed mesh is also convenient to apply and to remove.