Guided osteogenesis using synthetic membranes: an experimental pilot study.

The aim of this pilot study was to develop an experimental model for the assessment of bone augmentation, and in doing so compare the use of various synthetic membranes by relating osteogenesis to their microstructural and physical properties. Calvarial sites in nine Sprague Dawley rats were prepared for bone augmentation and three different membranes were used to cover the healing sites. Specimens were retrieved at sequenced intervals and subjected to macroscopic, histologic and histomorphometric analysis. The results obtained suggest that while current membranes are adequate for the regeneration of bone they may not be ideal for bone augmentation.