Immediate loading in the fully edentulous maxilla without bone grafting: the V-II-V technique

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Dental Implantology
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Fully edentulous maxillas often require complex bone grafting for dental implant rehabilitation.
• Immediate loading protocols can enhance patient satisfaction and reduce treatment time.
• Novel surgical techniques aim to simplify procedures and improve outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a new surgical approach, the V-II-V technique, for immediate full-arch rehabilitation of the edentulous maxilla.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of this technique without bone grafting.
• To determine implant survival and prosthesis success rates.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study involving 21 patients with edentulous maxillas.
• The V-II-V technique utilizes six implants, including tilted implants engaging the maxillary sinus walls.
• Immediate provisional restoration placement within 4 hours, followed by functional and aesthetic assessments.

Main Results:

• 126 implants placed, 19 prostheses followed for over 12 months (average 20 months).
• 100% implant survival rate and 100% prosthesis success rate observed.
• Minimal and comparable marginal bone loss around axial and tilted implants at one year.

Conclusions:

• The V-II-V technique is a viable option for immediate edentulous maxilla rehabilitation, eliminating the need for bone grafting.
• This approach demonstrates high success rates and avoids complications in the short term.
• Further long-term studies are recommended to confirm these preliminary findings.