Maxillary tuberosity block graft for the adjacent compromised posterior maxillary defects: a retrospective case series

ABSTRACT Autogenous bone may be beneficial for restoring complex, compromised alveolar ridge defects for implant placement, owing to its osteogenic potential. The maxillary tuberosity (MT) is often chosen among the intraoral donor sites. In the present case series, four patients presented advanced bone destruction due to peri-implantitis and periodontitis in the posterior maxilla. Moreover, all had protruded MTs relative to the mesial area. The protruded MT was in the same surgical access; thus, harvesting a graft from the MT could reduce the patient's morbidity. In terms of graft form, a block was more feasible from the protruded MT than from other intraoral donor sites. Thus, simultaneously with implant placement, the MT blocks were harvested and press-fit into the peri-implant defects, followed by the application of xenogeneic bone particles and a collagen membrane. After six months, uncovering was performed, revealing no residual defect and successful osseointegration. No complication was reported. During the follow-up post-final prosthesis delivery (3 years in patient 1, 1 year in patients 2 and 4, and 2 years in patient 3), radiographic and clinical examinations revealed stable bone regenerative outcomes and healthy peri-implant soft tissue. Prospective studies with a more extended follow-up are needed to verify the current findings and ensure long-term stability.