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Updated: Jun 24, 2026

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Coronoid-Temporalis Pedicled Flap for Orbital Floor Defect Reconstruction
Published on: December 5, 2025
[Implant retained epistheses for facial defects].
1Univ.-Hals-Nasen-Ohrenklinik Heidelberg. federspil@med.uni-heidelberg.de
Laryngo- Rhino- Otologie
|April 9, 2009
Summary
Craniofacial prostheses (epitheses) offer improved facial defect rehabilitation through implant-retained solutions. Modern techniques leverage osseointegration for secure, reliable prosthetic attachment.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Context:
- Facial defects present significant rehabilitation challenges.
- Modern silicones and bone anchorage have revolutionized epitheses.
- Osseointegration of titanium implants is a key advancement.
Purpose:
- To review the principles of osseointegration.
- To outline features of extraoral implantology.
- To discuss implant-retained craniofacial prostheses.
Summary:
- Craniofacial prostheses (epitheses) are artificial substitutes for facial defects.
- Implant-retained epitheses utilize osseointegration, primarily with titanium implants.
- Both solitary and grouped extraoral implant systems enhance prosthetic stability, even in regions with limited bone, such as the nasal, orbital, or mastoid areas.
Impact:
- Secure retention of even large facial epitheses is now achievable.
- Osseointegration principles and extraoral implantology are crucial for successful prosthetic rehabilitation.
- Atraumatic surgical techniques remain essential for optimal outcomes.