Horizontal and Vertical Defect Management with a Novel Degradable Pure Magnesium Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) Membrane—A Clinical Case

Background and objectives: In guided bone regeneration (GBR), large defects comprising both horizontal and vertical components usually require additional mechanical support to stabilize the augmentation and preserve the bone volume. This additional support is usually attained by using non-resorbable materials. A recently developed magnesium membrane presents the possibility of providing mechanical support whilst being completely resorbable. The aim of this case report was to describe the application and outcome of the magnesium membrane in combination with a collagen pericardium membrane for GBR. Materials and methods: A 74 year old, in an otherwise good general health condition, was presented with stage 2 grade A periodontitis and an impacted canine. After extraction of the impacted canine, a defect was created with both vertical and horizontal components. The defect was augmented using the magnesium membrane to create a supportive arch to the underlying bone graft and a collagen pericardium membrane was placed on top to aid with the soft tissue closure. Results: Upon reentry at 8 months, complete resorption of the magnesium devices was confirmed as there were no visible remnants remaining. A successful augmentation outcome had been achieved as the magnesium membrane in combination with the collagen membrane had maintained the augmented bone well. Two dental implants could be successfully placed in the healed augmentation. Conclusions: In this case, the magnesium membrane in combination with a collagen pericardium membrane presented a potentially viable alternative treatment to titanium meshes or titanium-reinforced membranes for the augmentation of a defect with both horizontal and vertical components that is completely resorbable. It was demonstrated that it is possible to attain a good quality and quantity of bone using a resorbable system that has been completely resorbed by the time of reentry.