Assessment of horizontal augmentation with the tunnel technique using monetite and collagen mixture: a prospective cohort study

Objectives: The aims of this study were to evaluate the effectiveness of the tunnel technique for horizontal augmentation, and to assess the performance of monetite and collagen mixture as a graft material in horizontal bone augmentation. Materials and methods: This prospective study was conducted on patients who presented to the department of oral and maxillofacial surgery at Tishreen University and who had horizontal augmentation with the tunnel technique using a mixture of monetite and collagen between January 2021 and December 2023. Bone width was analyzed using CBCT scan that were taken preoperatively, 4 months, and 6 months postoperatively. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the alveolar bone width at different levels during various time points. A paired t-test was performed to assess the alveolar ridge width differences between periods. The level of significance considered was 5% (alpha = 0.05). Results: A total of 12 horizontal augmentation procedures were performed without any intraoperative or postoperative complications. The width gain mean after 6 months was 1.55 mm (26.77%). The width gain was the greatest at W3 level (1.82 mm), and was lowest at W7 level (1.29 mm). The comparison of bone width during the different periods using paired t-test showed statistically significant differences. Conclusions: The tunnel technique for horizontal augmentation is a minimally invasive method that yields substantial width gain while maintaining the periosteum integrity and allowing for tension-free closure of soft tissues, all without notable complications. The combination of monetite and collagen presents a promising material option for achieving efficient outcomes in horizontal augmentation procedures.