Vertical ridge augmentation of the atrophic posterior mandible with a 2-stage inlay technique: a case report.

The use of a 2-stage inlay technique in atrophic posterior mandibles with more than 10-mm thickness and less than 5-mm height above the inferior alveolar nerve is described. The first surgical procedure was a basic corticotomy of the buccal and lingual bone. One month later, a complete inlay procedure was performed. Computed tomography and conventional radiography showed a mean vertical bone gain of 11.5 mm. This 2-stage inlay technique avoids the use of chisels to complete bone osteotomy and reduces postsurgical nerve disturbances in atrophic posterior mandibles. This technique reduces intraprocedure and postoperative patient discomfort.