Vertical distraction osteogenesis of frontal segment and platelet-rich plasma in the edentulous mandible.

In patients with atrophy of the alveolar ridge of classes V and VI according to Cawood and Howell, the distraction osteogenesis (DO) is the only possibility of reconstruction connected with subsequent dental implants. This method was introduced by Ilizarov (1989), a Russian doctor. In the past few years, the distraction devices have undergone several changes and technical improvements. The usage of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and autologous bone-platelet gel (ABPG) serving as the source of growth factors is considered a significant progress. The increase in the level of growth factors leads to new bone formation and in soft tissues enhances the healing around the bone and bone wound, lowers the risk of postoperative complications such as pain, swelling and bleeding as well as enables fast placement of implants (Ref. 19).