[Defect bridging and augmentation of the mandible by transplantation of locally cultured bone in a porous matrix].

In the present study, 9 Göttingen Minipigs received one porous hydroxylapatite block each on the buccal cortex of their mandibles. Autogenous bone was gained inside these blocks by using a polylactic membrane covering for guided tissue regeneration. The blocks showed thorough penetration by bone tissue after 5 months and were transplanted as onlay grafts and for restoration of mandibular defects. The onlay grafts were fixed by titanium fixtures and miniplates respectively. Histologic examination 3 months after transplantation showed maintenance and remodelling of the transplanted bone inside the pores of the blocks in most specimens. There war a soft tissue free contact between the transplanted bone and the inserted fixtures and screws. Results indicate that autogenous bone may be gained inside a porous matrix of calcium phosphate and be transplanted for reconstruction of contour and discontinuity defects.