EVALUATION OF RIDGE AUGMENTATION WITH CORTICO-CANCELLOUS ALLOGENEIC BONE GRAFT IN THE HUMAN ANTERIOR ATROPHIC MAXILLA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Background: Reconstruction of the anterior atrophic maxilla remains a complex clinical challenge. Corticocancellous allogeneic bone grafts have gained increasing attention as viable alternatives to autogenous blocks, offering reduced morbidity and improved handling.

Objective: This systematic review synthesized clinical evidence evaluating the performance of cortico-cancellous allogeneic bone grafts for horizontal ridge augmentation in the human anterior maxilla.

Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, five electronic databases were searched (2010–2024). Inclusion criteria encompassed human studies reporting clinical, radiographic, or histologic outcomes following anterior maxillary augmentation using allogeneic cortico-cancellous grafts. Ten clinical studies met the eligibility criteria.

Results: The studies demonstrated mean horizontal bone gains ranging from 3.5 to 6.8 mm, with graft resorption rates of 5–20%. Histologic analyses revealed viable new bone formation ranging from 25% to 45%. Implant survival consistently exceeded 94% after one year. Esthetic outcomes, assessed via PES/WES indices, showed satisfactory soft tissue integration and contour stability. Complications were minimal and primarily involved partial graft resorption.

Conclusion: Corticocancellous allogeneic grafts provide predictable bone volume gain and esthetic results comparable to autogenous grafts, with reduced donor-site morbidity. Nevertheless, heterogeneity in graft type, processing, and surgical approach warrants further controlled trials to establish standardized protocols for optimal integration and volume stability.