Varying treatment strategies for reconstruction of maxillary atrophy with implants: results in 98 patients

This report describes the outcome of maxillary implant reconstruction in 98 consecutively treated patients assigned to three groups based on the degree of maxillary atrophy as noted on radiographic examination and method of treatment. In group 1, 33 patients had 83 implants installed following sinus and/or nasal mucosal lift procedures. In group 2, 26 patients had 56 implants placed that penetrated the sinus and/or nasal cavities. The penetrating portion of the implant was covered with autogenous particulate bone harvested from the lateral aspect of the ipsilateral sinus. In group 3, 39 patients had 152 implants fixed to autogenous mandibular bone grafts placed either in the antral and/or nasal floors and/or as an onlay over the residual alveolar ridge. The age range of the patients was 15 to 76 years, with a mean of 56 years. Follow-up periods ranged from 12 to 58 months, with a mean of 26 months. Of the 291 implants installed, 19 have been lost. The importance of considering different treatment strategies when reconstructing the edentulous maxilla is discussed.