Customized lattice structure in reconstruction of three-dimensional alveolar defects

Missing or reduced buccal bone plates and a reduced vertical dimension still represent challenges in bone grafting and require a three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction. The protocol presented in this short technical note describes the clinical application of a patient-specific, titanium lattice structure for customized bone regeneration (CBR). A 3D projection of the bony defect is generated, and an individualized titanium lattice structure designed using computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) procedures and rapid prototyping. By confirming this design interactively, the surgeon is integrated into the design process. The aim of this technical note is to describe the principle of a novel and modern digital workflow, and describe a possible improvement to the common hand-configured lattice structure graft technique. The new protocol presented in this note facilitated and shortened surgery time, and may be a successful and predictable procedure for rebuilding an atrophied complex bone defect. Keywords: individualized dentistry, customized bone regeneration, CAD/CAM technology, grafting procedures, individualized lattice structure, titanium mesh