Does Bone Grafting Improve Outcomes in Coronectomy Surgery? Long-Term (5- to 9-Year) Clinical and Radiographic Follow-Up of 78 Adult Patients.

PURPOSE: To report the long-term outcomes of 78 adult patients who underwent coronectomy with bone grafting (CWG) of the bony crypt. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-eight patients with follow-up of at least 5 to 9 years underwent CWG. Preoperative imaging and probing depths were recorded, as were yearly follow-up radiographs or cone-beam computed tomograms and yearly postoperative probing depths. RESULTS: Periodontal probing depths and bone levels on the distal surfaces of adjacent mandibular molars showed marked improvement compared with preoperative probing depths and bone levels. All retained roots maintained their immediate postoperative positions with no migrations and no reoperations required. CONCLUSION: CWG is a predictable procedure that should be considered for patients at risk for developing sensory disturbances or for those with deeper (>4 mm) preoperative probing depths on the distal surfaces of the adjacent molars. Adding bone graft appears to aid in preventing root migration and decreasing probing depths on the distal surfaces of adjacent molars.

Emerging Biomaterials in Trauma.

Emerging technologies and research into the science of biomaterials have developed exponentially and provide facial reconstructive surgeons with a plethora of options for a multitude of varying presentations. This article presents a comprehensive discussion in the ever-evolving field of material science and emerging biomaterials. A complete understanding of the current status of such materials is necessary for the appropriate incorporation and applicability to adequate clinical situations. The rapid progress seen in biomaterials is evidenced through the forward direction of bioengineered tissues, the incorporation of growth factors in varying scenarios, and the unique characteristics of 3-D printing of patient specific scaffolds.