A study of 25 zygomatic dental implants with 11 to 49 months' follow-up after loading.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate indications, surgical problems, complications, and treatment outcomes related to the placement of zygomatic implants. A second aim was to determine any prosthetic difficulties and complications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-five zygomatic implants were placed in 13 patients between April 1999 and December 2001. The patient age range was between 49 and 73 years, with a mean age of 59 years. All patients showed severe resorption of alveolar bone in the maxilla. All but 2 patients were smokers. Two patients had a history of cleft palate surgery, and 2 patients were known to be bruxers. Standard recommended surgical protocol was followed, and treatment was performed under general anesthesia. After abutment surgery, 9 patients received bar-retained overdentures, and 4 patients received fixed prostheses.

RESULTS

No implants were lost, and few surgical complications were experienced. The follow-up period was 11 to 49 months.

DISCUSSION

Although surgical problems precipitated by difficult anatomy in cleft patients and a patient with reduced interarch access were experienced, the results were favorable. Fabricating a functional and esthetic prosthesis can be a challenge.

CONCLUSION

Zygomatic implants provide a treatment option for patients with severe maxillary resorption, defects, or situations where previous implant treatment has failed. In this experience, treatment with zygomatic implants was a predictable method with few complications, even in a group of patients that would not be considered ideal for implant treatment.