Research Advances in the Principle of Autologous Guided Bone Regeneration in Craniomaxillofacial Surgery

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) is a critical technique in craniomaxillofacial surgery, significantly advancing the management of bone defects resulting from trauma, tumor resection, congenital malformations, and insufficient bone volume for dental implants. Autologous GBR capitalizes on the body's inherent regenerative capabilities in conjunction with strategic interventions, benefiting from enhanced biocompatibility and integration with osteogenic processes. This review delineates recent advancements in autologous GBR within the context of craniomaxillofacial surgery. First, it elucidates the fundamental concepts and mechanisms underlying autologous GBR, emphasizing the biological processes of osteogenesis along with various influential factors. Second, it explores material applications in autologous GBR-encompassing both absorbable and nonabsorbable barrier membranes as well as diverse types of bone graft substitutes-highlighting their distinct characteristics and clinical outcomes. Third, this review discusses the clinical applications of autologous GBR across subfields, such as dental implantation, jaw defect repair, and correction of craniofacial deformities through representative evidence-based cases. Fourth, it addresses challenges encountered by autologous GBR-including issues related to regeneration efficiency and complications such as infection or membrane exposure-and proposes optimization strategies to mitigate these concerns. Finally, this review investigates innovative research directions encompassing gene therapy combined with GBR technology as well as applications of 3D printing while forecasting future trends toward multitechnology integration and precision treatment approaches. This comprehensive review serves as an essential reference for clinicians and researchers engaged in craniomaxillofacial surgery and its associated disciplines.