Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of recurrent injectable-platelet-rich-fibrin (I-PRF) in conjunction with autogenous bone on gingival thickness (GT), alveolar width, and volumetric bone changes during maxillary alveolar augmentation using cone-beam computer tomograms (CBCT). Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight patients with alveolar defects require bone augmentation. Two patient groups were chosen at random. Group I consisted of 14 patients who received only cortical ramus autogenous bone harvest (control group). Fourteen patients in Group II received autogenous bone grafting in addition to repeated I-PRF. To examine the alveolar ridge width, CBCT was performed before, immediately following, and at 6 and 9 months. Three-dimensional volumetric changes in bone were carried out using the sequence of CBCT image segmentation and 3D superimposition analysis. Results: At 9 months of follow-up, Group II showed significant improvements in GT compared to Group I. Radiographic evaluation of ridge width at 9 months revealed a significant mean increase in ridge width in Group II. There is a notable variation in bone volume between the two groups. Group II’s volumetric measurements increased significantly when compared to preoperative readings at 9 months ( P = .02). Conclusions: Repeated injections of I-PRF improve GT and bone growth. Additionally, it maintains the autogenous bone graft’s integrity throughout the early healing phase.
Introduction: Tobacco smoking is listed as one of the top ten health indicators in the objectives outlined by the “World Health Organization’s Healthy People 2020” initiative. Hookah tobacco presents a significant health risk due to the widespread misconception among college students that this product is harmless and non-addictive. Evaluating practices is a crucial initial step to mitigate the spread of shisha use. Additionally, comprehending its usage patterns and addiction is vital for formulating effective prevention and cessation strategies. Aim and Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess shisha smoking-related knowledge, attitudes and practices among students of dental institutions of Lucknow city (U.P.) India. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study utilizing a self-designed, close-ended questionnaire was conducted. The study received approval from the Institutional Ethical Committee, and written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Categorical data were presented as frequencies ( n ) and percentages (%). Comparisons between categorical groups were made using the Chi-square (χ2) test. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS software (Windows version 22.0). Results: Among the 1050 dental students surveyed, the prevalence of shisha smoking was 59.1%. The prevalence was significantly higher in males (69.1%) compared to females (39.7%), with a statistically significant difference (χ2 = 83.75, P < 0.001). Categorical data were reported as frequencies ( n ) and percentages (%). Conclusion: This study provides essential data to authorities and health policymakers, facilitating a deeper comprehension of the adverse health effects and misconceptions related to shisha use.
Introduction: Achieving good nasolabial esthetics and symmetry in unilateral cleft lip repair is often challenging. Although techniques of cleft lip repair have evolved over the years, each has different implications and its own setbacks. The aim of the current paper is to describe a double unilimb Z-plasty with upper rotation advancement for the management of complete unilateral cleft lip. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted at our center, including all patients who reported to us for the correction of unilateral cleft lip. Preoperative frontal and submental photogrammetric evaluation facilitated the planning of rotation-advancement flaps with double unilimb Z-plasties. Nasolabial esthetics were assessed using the Asher–McDade scale and a modified photographic evaluation by three independent reviewers to evaluate the efficacy of the technique in enhancing nasolabial esthetics. Results: Thirty-three patients with unilateral cleft lip within the age group of 4 to 10 months were enrolled in the study. Twenty-five patients were included based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The average width of the cleft ranged between 14 and 18 mm, the mean discrepancy in the height of the philtral column was 6–12 mm, and the mean discrepancy in the thickness of the vermilion was 3 mm. The immediate postoperative period did not reveal any significant surgical-site complications, while late postoperative evaluation revealed satisfactory nasolabial esthetics, with none of the patients requiring revision cheiloplasty. Conclusion: Upper rotation advancement with double unilimb Z-plasty appears to be an effective method of achieving good nasolabial esthetics in patients with wide unilateral cleft lip without NAM.
Introduction: Maxillofacial fractures pose a significant health challenge in military settings due to high-risk combat and training activities, impacting facial aesthetics, function and overall well-being. This 7-year retrospective observational study at a tertiary care army centre analyses prevalence, patterns, etiology and outcomes of the injuries among military personnel and dependents from 2017 to 2023. Patients and Methods: This single-institution retrospective study reviewed 431 maxillofacial trauma cases at a tertiary-level military teaching hospital, including serving personnel, ex-servicemen, paramilitary, emergency civilians, and dependents. Inclusion criteria covered direct and referred cases with maxillofacial injuries; exclusions were non-maxillofacial trauma, incomplete records, and conservative management cases. Data from medical records on demographics, injury details, mechanisms, and outcomes were analysed using Microsoft Excel for descriptive statistics, frequencies, and cross-tabulations, with institutional review board approval. Results: Males predominated (381/431, 88.4%), with most cases in the 19-44 age group (62.41% males, 4.64% females); children under 12 were least affected (1.39% males, 0.70% females). Road traffic accidents were the leading cause, followed by falls and sports injuries; maxillary fractures (380) slightly exceeded mandibular (368), with zygomatico-maxillary complex fractures most common (52.89%). Fractures showed no significant right-left side preference (similar bilateral rates ~10%). Conclusion: Maxillofacial fractures predominantly affect young adult males via road traffic accidents in this military cohort, with midface (zygomatico-maxillary) injuries most prevalent. The incidence of fractures resulting from RTAs can be effectively reduced through stricter implementation of preventive measures, including the mandatory use of helmets and seat belts, as well as more stringent enforcement of laws against driving under the influence of alcohol.
