Case report: utilization of Z-Point fixture "Trans-nasal" implants

Severe bone loss in the anterior maxilla poses challenges to implant placement, especially when treating the entire arch. Utilization of zygomatic implants may not allow positioning of the implant platform anterior enough to properly support the full arch prosthesis, leaving an anterior cantilever in some clinical cases.

Placement of implants into the trans-nasal bone between the pneumatized maxillary sinus and nasal fossa allows utilization of an extralong implant in this residual bone to augment zygomatic implants placed distal to this for better support of a full arch prosthesis.

A typical case is presented with insufficient alveolar height for traditional implant placement in the anterior maxilla following extraction of the dentition related to bone loss resulting from periodontal disease. Review of the anatomy and technique for placement of implants into the Z-point area for trans-nasal implants.

This article discusses the utilization of trans-nasal implants into the Z-point and the technique for placement in this residual bone with a case example.

The Z-point implant aids in the elimination of the anterior cantilever that may be present due to the most anterior the platform for the zygomatic implant can be placed. Trans-nasal implants should be considered as part of the treatment plan in severely resorbed maxillary arches to allow better implant to spread and load management during functioning.