Complications of Grafting in the Atrophic Edentulous or Partially Edentulous Jaw

Complications of ridge reconstruction can delay healing or even cause total failure of the procedure, making implant placement impossible. Most intraoperative complications, such as insufficient material for a graft or inadequate range of a soft tissue flap, are the result of poor treatment planning or execution. Postoperative infection is usually associated with onlay, veneer, and J grafts and dehiscence. Resorption of the graft can range from minor (exposure of the heads of the fixation screws) to total. Retraction of a soft tissue flap is most likely where the vestibule is shallow or the muscle pull is great. It is important to discuss the risks and consequences of all potential complications with the patient before informed consent is obtained. This measure will help prevent another complication, patient dissatisfaction with the results of surgery.