When the barrier intended to protect a bone graft dislodges or becomes exposed, several complications can arise. The primary risk is the potential for bacterial contamination of the graft site. Oral bacteria, readily present in the mouth, can colonize the graft material, leading to infection. This infection can compromise the graft’s ability to integrate with the surrounding bone, hindering the desired regenerative process. The presence of soft tissue ingrowth into the graft area, rather than bone formation, is also a significant possibility, further disrupting the healing process.
The integrity of this protective barrier is crucial for successful bone regeneration in dental and orthopedic procedures. Its presence ensures a controlled environment for bone cells to proliferate and mature without interference from competing tissues. Maintaining a stable graft site is vital because premature exposure increases the likelihood of graft failure, necessitating further surgical intervention and extending the overall treatment duration. Historically, addressing complications related to membrane exposure has been a persistent challenge in regenerative medicine, driving continuous innovation in barrier materials and surgical techniques.
