The Processing of Xenografts Will Result in Different Clinical Responses.

PURPOSE: Clinicians might decide to use a xenograft to reconstruct an osseous defect. Xenografts are processed differently depending on the manufacturer. The purpose of this article is to review the processing methods and clinical ramifications of these processing methods on the behavior of xenografts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Differences in surface morphology of xenografts based on processing, xenografts used for sinus augmentation, onlay grafting using particulate xenografts, and available clinical trials are reviewed.

RESULTS: When used for grafting the extraction socket or preserving or reconstructing the ridge contour, xenografts can result in different resorption rates over time.

CONCLUSION: Based on the available information gleaned from the literature, clinical recommendations are included for specific clinical applications.