Mandibulotomy and implant insertion
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Real-Time Dynamic Navigation System for the Precise Quad-Zygomatic Implant Placement in a Patient with a Severely Atrophic Maxilla
Published on: October 18, 2021
Pieter J Schoen1, Gerry M Raghoebar, Arjan Vissink
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Maxillofacial Prosthetics, University Hospital Groningen, P. O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands. p.j.shoen@kchir.azg.nl
Background:
A mandibulotomy can be necessary to approach a tumor in the oral cavity or oropharynx. The aim of this study was to develop and prospectively evaluate a technique enabling simultaneous performance of a mandibulotomy and insertion of endosseous implants in the same area.
Methods:
In five edentulous patients such a procedure was performed. The pilot drilling of the implants was done before performing the mandibulotomy. After tumor resection, reconstruction, and restoration of the continuity of the mandible, the final drilling and insertion of the implants were completed. In total, 20 implants were inserted. All patients received radiation therapy within 6 weeks after surgery. Implant-supported overdentures were fabricated 6 months after irradiation. At regular time intervals, a standardized clinical and radiographic evaluation was performed.
Results:
No complications with respect to the combination of implant insertion and mandibulotomy were observed either during or after surgery. In addition, no adverse mucosal reactions were observed during the course of radiotherapy, no cases of osteoradionecrosis developed, and no implants were lost. Clinical and radiographic evaluation revealed healthy peri-implant parameters.
Conclusion:
From this study it is concluded that, when following the technique described, a mandibulotomy can be combined safely with the insertion of implants in the ventral part of the edentulous mandible.
