Magnesium-based barrier membrane for guided bone regeneration: From bedside to bench and back again

Magnesium (Mg)-based barrier membranes represent a promising advancement in guided bone regeneration (GBR) treatment, with significant potential due to their unique material properties. This comprehensive review is an in-depth exploration of the evolution of Mg-based barrier membranes using a "bedside-to-bench and back-again" paradigm and highlights their clinical relevance and innovative material characteristics. Considering clinical demands, this study primarily assesses how ideal membranes meet the clinical principle of GBR, mainly focusing on their material properties that properly align with the clinical functionality of the "PASS" principles (primary wound closure, angiogenesis, space maintenance, and stability). Furthermore, current research findings demonstrate that Mg-based membranes exhibit characteristics that go beyond mere barrier function and provide an optimal balance between promoting bone regeneration and preventing bacterial infiltration during soft tissue healing. By this action, Mg-based membrane serves as a safeguard for inexperienced oral surgeons, increasing the likelihood of optimal clinical outcomes even in the event of complications such as wound dehiscence. Consequently, the use of Mg-based membranes could simplify the GBR and dental implant placement procedures, potentially reducing the failure rate of these clinical treatments. Concerning clinical applications, Mg-based membranes have recently expanded beyond GBR treatment, encompassing many clinical cases. This review underscores the need for continuous innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration to advance the clinical use of Mg-based membranes. The successful translation of Mg-based membranes from basic concept to clinical practice indicates the significant potential of Mg-based materials in regenerative medicine.