Short implants in the severely resorbed maxilla: a 2-year retrospective clinical study.
BACKGROUND
Although the predictability of endosseous dental implants is well documented, the restoration of the posterior region of the maxilla remains a challenge. The placement of short implants is one therapeutic option that reduces the need for augmentation therapy.


OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess the survival rates of 6 to 8.5 mm-long implants in the severely resorbed maxilla following a surgical protocol for optimized initial implant stability.


METHODS
The study included 85 patients with 96 short (6-8.5 mm) implants (Brånemark System, Nobel Biocare AB, Göteborg, Sweden) supporting single-tooth and partial reconstructions. The implants had a machined (54) or an oxidized (TiUnite, Nobel Biocare AB) (42) surface. A one-stage surgical protocol with delayed loading was used. The patients were followed for at least 2 years after loading (average follow-up period 37.6 months). The marginal bone resorption was assessed by radiographic readings.


RESULTS
Five implants were lost during the first 9 months, and four implants were lost to follow-up. The cumulative survival rate was 94.6%. Four of the failed implants had a machined surface, and one had an oxidized surface. The mean marginal bone resorption after 2 years in function was 0.44 +/- 0.52 mm.


CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates that the use of short implants may be considered for prosthetic rehabilitation of the severely resorbed maxilla as an alternative to more complicated surgical techniques.
Renouard
Franck
F
Department of Periodontology, Paris VII University, Paris, France. frenouard@aol.com
Nisand
David
D
D016301:Alveolar Bone Loss / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D001641:Bicuspid; D003442:Crowns; D003758:Dental Implantation, Endosseous / Q000379:methods*; D015921:Dental Implants; D003776:Dental Porcelain; D017267:Dental Prosthesis Design; D019094:Dental Prosthesis, Implant-Supported; D019232:Dental Restoration Failure; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008437:Maxilla / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D008963:Molar; D011859:Radiography; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013499:Surface Properties
D015921:Dental Implants; D003776:Dental Porcelain