The use of cancellous bone for closure of oroantral and oronasal defects.

Two patients who were successfully treated with cancellous bone grafts for closure of large oroantral or oronasal defects have been presented. In attempting closure of such large defects, it is important to follow certain principles. The oral, antral, and nasal mucosa must be free of infection and inflammation, continuity must exist between the oroantral and oronasal mucosa, and water-tight closure of the oroantral and oronasal flaps must be achieved. Preoperative and postoperative antibiotics and steroids are recommended.