Barbell Technique: A Novel Approach for Bidirectional Bone Augmentation: Technical Note

Abstract

Horizontal bone reconstruction is a common augmentation procedure used in implant dentistry to achieve adequate 3-dimensional ridge reconstruction to permit proper dental implant positioning. However, most available techniques are focused on unidirectional bone reconstruction (grafting only on the buccal side). This study was carried out to validate an innovative device that is indicated for bidirectional bone augmentation. The study consisted of 4 patients who required bidirectional horizontal bone augmentation of the upper jaw. Two computerized tomographies were performed (T0 at baseline and T1 at 6 months postoperative examinations). Mean bone thickness in the studied sites at T0 was 2.30 ± 0.65 and mean bone thickness achieved was 9.11 ± 1.08 mm at T1, with an overall bone gain of 6.81 ± 1.33 mm. Concerning the specific gains in direction, buccal and palatal bone augmentations were 4.89 ± 0.94 and 1.92 ± 0.42 mm, respectively. Based on these results, it can be concluded that the use of this novel device allows for the achievement of bidirectional horizontal bone augmentation.