Guided bone augmentation using a ceramic space-maintaining device

Objective. The purpose of this study was to evaluate 3-dimensionally whether vertical bone augmentation can be achieved using a hollow hydroxyapatite space-maintaining device in a rabbit calvarial model. Furthermore, different inner surface topographies, different permeabilities, and different porosities of the ceramic were tested to determine the optimal conditions for bone regeneration. Study Design. A total of 48 hollow domes made of hydroxyapatite in 4 different designs were placed subperiosteally on rabbit skull bone. The rabbits were humanely killed after 12 weeks, and the results were analyzed 3-dimensionally using micro-computed tomography. Results. The results suggest a larger production of bone volume when using an occlusive, dense hydroxyapatite space-maintaining device with a rough inner surface. Conclusions. Hydroxyapatite space-maintaining devices permit new bone formation and osteoconduction within the dome.