Modified split bone block technique for reconstruction of the atrophic edentulous maxilla: a retrospective clinical study

Abstract Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the modified split bone block technique in patients with an atrophic maxilla and to assess its clinical outcomes in terms of horizontal ridge width gain and implant outcomes. Methods This retrospective clinical study included 18 patients who underwent reconstruction of the atrophic maxilla using the modified bilateral split bone block technique between January 2020 and April 2024. Preoperative and postoperative evaluations included clinical examinations and radiographic assessments to evaluate ridge width changes and implant outcomes after graft healing. The mean follow-up period after prosthetic loading was 18.6 ± 8.6 months (range, 12–44 months). Postoperative complications such as dehiscence, infection, and graft resorption were also recorded. Results A total of 18 patients (10 females, 8 males; mean age, 54.22 ± 7.12 years) were included. The patient-level mean ridge width increased from 2.39 ± 0.45 mm at T0 to 7.27 ± 0.89 mm at T1 , with a mean horizontal ridge width gain of 4.88 ± 0.66 mm (95% CI , 4.55–5.21 mm; p < 0.001) . Minor complications were observed in four patients, including transient paresthesia in three patients and limited wound dehiscence in one patient, which healed without graft loss. After a mean healing period of 4.5 ± 0.8 months , 96 implants were placed, all of which demonstrated 100% survival at the 12-month follow-up, with no pain, infection, or mobility observed during clinical evaluation. Conclusions The modified bilateral split bone block technique resulted in substantial horizontal ridge width gain and favorable short-term implant outcomes in this selected patient cohort. The technique may represent a clinically useful reconstructive option for appropriately selected patients with sufficient residual bone height.