Vertical bone augmentation using different osteoconductive scaffolds combined with barrier domes in the rat calvarium.

Purpose: To compare the regenerative potential for vertical bone augmentation of various osteoconductive scaffolds when used in conjunction with barrier domes.

Materials And Methods: Following exposure and perforation of the calvarium, a gold occlusive dome was filled with the tested scaffold and anchored by fixation screws. Flaps were repositioned and secured. The four treatment groups, three to five rats each, were as follows: Bio-Oss collagen (BOC), β-tricalcium phosphate (TCP), collagen sponge (COL), and empty domes (C). Rats were sacrificed 8 weeks later, and specimens were prepared for histological and histomorphometric analysis. Vertical bone height and total tissue height were measured.

Results: The newly regenerated bone appeared mature, highly vascularized, and with no signs of inflammation. Vertical bone height in the TCP group (mean 2.04 ± 0.2 mm) was greater than all other groups (0.76 ± 0.02, 1.52 ± 0.18, and 1.77 ± 0.61 mm for the BOC, C, and COL, respectively) but significantly only for the BOC group (p = .0145). Total tissue height was significantly higher (p < .0001) in both BOC and TCP groups (4.48 ± 0.23 and 5.5 ± 0.24 mm, respectively) compared with COL (3.22 ± 0.11 mm) and C (2.39 ± 0.3 mm) groups.

Conclusion: TCP in conjunction with barrier dome resulted in greater vertical bone augmentation in the calvarium of rats.