Nine-year follow-up of successful placement of endosseous implants in a mandibular bone graft.

Facial trauma injuries secondary to gunshot wounds present a unique challenge. These wounds are avulsive and typically involve the destruction of soft tissue with bone loss. A technique in bone transplantation is that of particulate cancellous bone and marrow. Initial form and stability can be provided by a titanium mesh tray or reconstruction plates while the graft undergoes maturation and consolidation. Dental implants can then be placed in this grafted site to provide stabilization for a functional and comfortable prosthesis and for the support of the peri-oral soft tissues.