[Clinical application and evaluation of socket shield technique]

Objective: To further improve socket shield technique. The treatment outcome and the key related factors in Asian population are evaluated by measuring the root fragment and alveolar crest parameters in immediate implant placement cases with socket shield. Methods: A total of 18 patients, with 21 implants placed using socket shield technique were included in this retrospective study. Fourteen implants of 11 cases were recruited from West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, 7 implants of 7 cases were recruited from Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University. The relationship between the thickness of the root fragment, the vertical height of the root fragment and the dimensional changes of buccal alveolar bone in 6 months was analyzed respectively. The pink-white esthetic scores were evaluated. The complications were recorded, analyzed and preventive measures were put forward. Results: There is a negative correlation between the vertical height of tooth fragment and the buccal crest height reduction (r=-0.458, P=0.037). There were negative correlations between the thickness of the tooth fragment with the vertical dimensional changes (r=-0.574, P=0.007) and horizontal dimensional changes (r=-0.619, P=0.003) of buccal alveolar bone. Three cases with internal exposure were recorded during the treatment. No severe complications were observed. Every case achieved a satisfying pink-white esthetic outcome according to the existing treatment protocols. Conclusions: Rigorous case screening, delicate surgical procedures, and maintaining adequate thickness of the root are the key to achieve a good esthetic outcome of implant treatment with socket shield technique.