Use of Coral Granules in the Craniofacial Skeleton

Solid coral blocks have been used as a bone graft substitute in clinical orthopedics for more than 12 years. In this study, 36 patients with 54 craniofacial osseous contour defects received subperiosteal augmentations with natural coral granules made chiefly of calcium carbonate. The patients were followed for 12 to 36 months. The postoperative results were satisfactory; there were only 5 sites of clinically evident resorption. There were 2 incidences of wound irritation and 1 instance of overt infection. Technical aspects of the procedure are discussed.