Autogenous rib graft for reconstruction of alveolar bone defects in cleft patients. Long-term follow-up results.

In a retrospective study (mean follow-up 76 months), the use of a free autogenous rib graft for reconstruction of anterior residual bone defects in seventeen cleft patients is evaluated on a long term basis. The results show recurrence of a palatal oronasal fistula in 2 out of 17 patients. 6 patients had acceptable results, while 9 had good to excellent scores at all sites. The costal graft material does not prevent permanent upper cuspids from erupting into this bone, after its incorporation. It is concluded that autogenous rib bone is a good material for secondary bone grafting of the residual alveolar and palatal defect in cleft patients.