Combined Sinus Grafting and Lateral Augmentation by a Hyaluronic Acid-Facilitated Guided Bone Regeneration Protocol – Case Series Supported by Human Histologic Analysis

Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) is a well-established procedure for the regeneration of alveolar bone defects. In the case of highly complex defect situations, however, inconsistent treatment results are often achieved. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) fulfills several relevant preliminary success criteria for improved regenerative treatment outcomes in complex defects: HA supports the creation of a toxin-free wound area, HA improves wound space stabilization, accelerates wound healing and supports regenerative processes crucial for bone regeneration. The novelty in the reported cases is the use of porcine derived bone substitute particulate hydrated with a cross-linked hyaluronic acid for simultaneous sinus grafting and lateral/vertical ridge augmentation in combination with a ribose cross-linked collagen membrane. The approval of the feasibility is provided with the clinical and histological observations. Three consecutive cases received the abovementioned material combination for staged sinus floor elevation and additional augmentation procedure by one operator according to a standardized protocol. All three sites constantly demonstrate superior clinical outcomes in terms of radiographically impressive tissue enhancement and implant function. The clinical outcomes are supported by qualitative histological analysis reflecting great similarity between samples regarding the observed process of new bone formation and bone substitute behavior. The specific staining allows for detection of osteoclastic activity and indicates the tendency of the particulate bone substitute to degrade over time once integrated.