The 26th Annual Scientific Meeting of the European Association for Osseointegration (EAO) in Madrid showcased significant advancements in bone regenerative protocols. The online Congress, hosted by Kenneth Hacker and featuring experts like Gary Jakub and Henning, emphasized the convergence of scientific research and clinical practice in osseointegration and implant dentistry.
Bone regeneration procedures have dramatically evolved due to new materials and surgical techniques. In the past, bone augmentation relied heavily on traditional methods and extensive surgeries. However, recent developments have enabled more minimally invasive approaches, significantly benefiting patient outcomes.
One pivotal advancement in bone regeneration is the use of shorter and narrower implants. These have reshaped the approach to bone augmentation, reducing the need for extensive surgical procedures. This change emphasizes patient comfort, minimizing complications, and addressing patient preferences regarding treatment time and cost.
The session highlighted the importance of evidence-based knowledge in bone augmentation. Questions arise about the necessary amount of bone around an implant-supported restoration and the circumstances requiring vertical ridge augmentation, particularly in the posterior mandible. Studies indicate that short implants perform well, and an unfavorable crown-to-implant ratio does not adversely affect the biological and biomechanical behavior of implant-supported restorations.
Debates continue regarding the necessity of using autogenous bone grafts and titanium-reinforced membranes. Can these be replaced by bone substitutes and resorbable membranes? Additionally, the potential for replacing autogenous bone blocks with allografts is being explored, though concerns about long-term bone resorption persist. Understanding the long-term behavior of regenerated bone and the prevalence of peri-implantitis in these cases remains crucial.
In addressing horizontal and vertical defects, surgical options are varied. For shallow bone situations, short implants may suffice. However, when bone is too narrow, bone augmentation procedures become necessary. These procedures increase surgical complexity and morbidity, necessitating more extensive exposure of bone and soft tissue manipulation.
Bone replacement materials, in conjunction with barrier membranes, play a critical role in maintaining the three-dimensional shape required for successful bone augmentation. The use of autogenous bone, whether harvested from the mandible or iliac crest, remains a common practice. The discussion also highlighted the growing interest in allografts, which could spare patients the morbidity associated with graft procurement.
Clinical cases were presented to illustrate these principles. For instance, a patient with missing central incisors and a high lip line required bone augmentation to achieve a long-lasting aesthetic outcome. The thin gingiva and horizontal bony defect necessitated careful planning to ensure reliable soft tissue remodeling post-augmentation.
The session underscored the importance of balancing scientific evidence with clinical expertise. Combining evidence-based approaches with practical skills ensures the best patient outcomes. The integration of advanced materials, minimally invasive techniques, and patient-centered care continues to drive the evolution of bone regenerative protocols in implant dentistry. This holistic approach bridges the gap between research and practice, ultimately enhancing the quality of patient care in the field of osseointegration.