Posterior segmental osteotomy with simultaneous endosseous implant placement to facilitate fixed reconstruction

The supra-eruption of the edentulous posterior maxilla may decrease interarch space, thus compromising the construction of an adequate fixed or removable prosthetic appliance (Henderson et al., 1985). The following case report illustrates a treatment which provides additional interarch space facilitating the restoration of the patient's dentition with a fixed prosthetic appliance. This arch space deficiency was corrected by performance of a unilateral posterior maxillary osteotomy with superior repositioning of this segment. Simultaneously, a hydroxylapatite-coated titanium endosteal dental implant was placed. Pre-operative considerations, the surgical procedure, and post-operative management of this problem are discussed.