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Partially Biodegradable Distraction Implant to Replace Conventional Implants in Alveolar Bone of Insufficient Height: A Preliminary Study in Dogs
Author(s) -
Li Tao,
Zhang Yongqiang,
Shao Bo,
Gao Yuan,
Zhang Chen,
Cao Qiang,
Kong Liang
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
clinical implant dentistry and related research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.338
H-Index - 85
eISSN - 1708-8208
pISSN - 1523-0899
DOI - 10.1111/cid.12229
Subject(s) - osseointegration , distraction , implant , medicine , dentistry , distraction osteogenesis , dental implant , alveolar crest , dental alveolus , orthodontics , surgery , neuroscience , biology
Background Dental implants have been widely used in the last few decades. However, patients with insufficient bone height need reconstructive surgeries before implant insertion. The distraction implant ( DI ) has been invented to simplify the treatment procedure, but the shortcomings of DI s have limited their clinical use. We incorporated biodegradable polyester into a novel DI called the partially biodegradable distraction implant ( PBDI ). Purpose The purpose of this study was to assess the radiological, histological, and biomechanical properties of the PBDI in animal models. Material and Methods PBDIs were manufactured and inserted into the atrophied mandibles of nine dogs. Box‐shaped alveolar bones were segmented and distracted. The dogs were randomly divided into three groups that were sacrificed 1, 2, and 3 months after the implant insertion. Actual augmentation height ( AAH ) of the bone segments was measured to evaluate the effect of distraction. X ‐ray examination and micro‐ CT reconstruction and analysis were used to evaluate the regenerated bone in the distraction gap and bone around the functional element. Histological sections were used to evaluate the osseointegration and absorption of the PBDI . Fatigue tests were used to evaluate the biomechanical properties of the PBDI . Results Little change was found in AAH among the three groups. X ‐ray examination and micro‐ CT reconstruction showed good growth of regenerated bone in the distraction gap. Alveolar bone volume around the functional element increased steadily. No obvious bone absorption occurred in the alveolar crest around PBDI . Three months after distraction, the functional element achieved osseointegration, and the support element began to be absorbed. All PBDIs survived the fatigue test. Conclusions The PBDI is a novel and reliable dental implant. It becomes a conventional implant after the absorption of the support element and the removal of the distraction screw. It is a promising replacement for conventional implants in patients with insufficient alveolar bone height.