What is the difference between cortical and cancellous bone? Why mix them?

Due to its structural porosity, cancellous bone graft allows for a high concentration of osteoblasts and osteocytes, resulting in superior osteogenic potential.

Additionally, its large trabecular surface area encourages vascularization and incorporation at the recipient site. Cortical bone particles provide structure and rigidity, which is particularly important for procedures involving horizontal and vertical augmentation of the alveolar ridge. Mixing cortical and cancellous bone particles imbues Vitality Bone Particulate Allograft with the characteristics of both materials.

 

 

Dr. Hamid Shafie

Director of postdoctoral implant training at Washington Hospital Center

Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery