IMMEDIATE FIXED REHABILITATION OF THE ATROPHIC MAXILLA WITH PTERYGOID IMPLANTS: 3-YEAR POST-LOADING OUTCOMES OF A PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY

PURPOSE. To assess the three-year post-loading outcomes of pterygoid implants supporting immediate full-arch fixed prostheses in patients with atrophic posterior maxilla.

MATERIALS AND METHODS. Fifteen patients, either completely edentulous or with failing dentition, and with severe atrophy of the posterior maxilla requiring a full-arch fixed prosthesis, were enrolled in the study. Fifty-eight conventional implants and twenty-eight pterygoid implants were placed. All participants underwent fixed prosthodontic rehabilitation after implant insertion in both the anterior maxilla and pterygoid regions. Patients were followed-up for a period of three years. Outcomes considered were: implant and prosthesis failures, any complications, and peri-implant bone conditions, as assessed on panoramic radiographs.

RESULTS. Three years after loading no drop-out occurred, no implant or prosthesis loss was reported in any patient. Six minor complications occurred in six patients, and no peri-implant radiolucency was detected on any panoramic radiograph.

CONCLUSIONS. Three years after loading, all immediately loaded prostheses were successful, and no pterygoid implant failed.