Titanium implants in the zygoma as retaining elements after hemimaxillectomy

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Obturator prostheses are essential for patients with maxillectomy defects, requiring stable intraoral anchoring.
• Existing anchoring elements in the residual maxilla often face mechanical overstress due to limited collateral support.
• The need for enhanced retention and stability in obturator prosthesis rehabilitation is critical.

Observation:

• This study reports on the use of intraoral titanium implants placed into the zygoma.
• These implants serve as an alternative or supplementary support system for obturator prostheses.
• The zygomatic implant placement aims to improve prosthesis stability and reduce stress on the maxilla.

Findings:

• Intraoral zygomatic implants can provide significant additional retention for obturator prostheses.
• This approach effectively mitigates mechanical overstress on the anchoring elements within the residual maxilla.
• Successful application of zygomatic implants demonstrates their viability in complex maxillofacial reconstructions.

Implications:

• Zygomatic implants offer a promising solution for improving the functional outcomes and longevity of obturator prostheses.
• This technique enhances patient quality of life by providing more stable and retentive prosthetic devices.
• Further research into zygomatic implant-supported obturators can refine surgical and prosthetic protocols.