Retrospective Radiographic Evaluation of Ridge Dimensional Changes After Vertical Augmentation Using the Novel Wide-Head Tent Pole Screw Technique

Introduction.Despite significant advancements in surgical techniques for reconstructing severely resorbed alveolar bone, achieving predictable regeneration remains a considerable challenge. Many conventional ridge augmentation methods require extended edentulous healing periods and multiple surgical interventions. This clinical study presents an innovative and simplified approach for advanced ridge augmentation using a wide-head tent-pole screw (WHTPS), designed to enhance procedural efficiency while ensuring reliable clinical outcomes. Material and Methods. Thirteen patients with severely vertically resorbed mandibular segments or completely edentulous alveolar ridges, each presenting with a minimum vertical bone defect of 5 mm or more, were included in this study. A single WHTPS was placed at the most severe bone defect site, followed by bone graft placement and coverage with a resorbable membrane. Postoperatively, a panoramic radiograph was taken, with an additional radiograph obtained on the day of WHTPS removal after a healing period of 3 to 6 months. Furthermore, a follow-up panoramic radiograph was taken after the final prosthesis placement, with an average follow-up of 5.5 months, to assess changes in the augmented alveolar bone. Patients were clinically monitored for a period ranging from 8 to 20 months, with an average duration of 13.9 months. Results. The average vertical bone gain immediately after surgery was 8.86 mm (SD: ±2.59 mm), while an average bone resorption of 1.49 mm (17.79%) was observed during the follow-up period. Conclusion. A single WHTPS effectively stabilized the graft material in cases of severe alveolar bone loss, preventing resorption and displacement. This technique simplified the surgical procedure while ensuring predictable vertical bone augmentation. Further clinical studies are required to validate its long-term effectiveness.