Integrated polyetheretherketone patient-specific implants for multi-subunit midface concavity: a retrospective case...

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial surgery
• Biomaterials engineering
• Medical device design

Background:

• Correcting multi-subunit midface concavity without malocclusion is challenging with standard implants.
• Irregular implant transitions and difficult dissections pose risks.
• Computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) offer potential solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and short-term aesthetic outcomes of integrated polyetheretherketone (PEEK) patient-specific implants.
• To assess the efficacy of CAD/CAM technology in addressing midface concavity.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of 31 adult patients with moderate-to-severe midface concavity.
• Bilateral integrated PEEK patient-specific implants used for skeletal augmentation.
• Patient-reported aesthetic satisfaction assessed using a modified GAIS scale.

Main Results:

• All 62 implants were successfully placed without intraoperative reshaping.
• Late postoperative patient satisfaction (90.3%) was significantly higher than early satisfaction.
• Transient edema and hypoesthesia occurred, but no serious complications like infection or nerve injury were observed.

Conclusions:

• Integrated PEEK patient-specific implants are a feasible option for selected patients with midface concavity and normal occlusion.
• This technology allows for customized skeletal augmentation and individualized aesthetic planning.
• Further research with longer follow-up and objective assessments is recommended.