Lateralization of the Inferior Alveolar Nerve After Repositioning of the Bone Window Versus Sticky Bone Augmentation

Rehabilitation of edentulous posterior mandibular regions with severe ridge atrophy using implants is subject to anatomical, surgical, and biological difficulties. In many cases, the bone is severely atrophied that sufficiently long fixtures cannot be placed without encroaching on the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN). IANL is defined as the lateralization of inferior alveolar neurovascular bundle posterior to the mental foramen, with preservation of the incisive nerve; exposure and traction are used to deflect the IAN laterally while the implants are placed.