Functional reconstruction of maxillectomy defect with zygomatic implant

Abstract

Objective • To evaluate the outcomes of maxillary reconstruction using zygomatic implant (ZI) technique. Methods • Eligible patients who were treated with maxillary resection and rehabilitated with ZI-supported obturator prostheses were enrolled from January 2013 to December 2019. The survival rate of the ZI, the success rate of the prosthesis, the postoperative complications, the restoration of speech and mastication, and patients' satisfaction on appearance were evaluated to determine the clinical outcomes of this technique. Results • A total of 69 ZIs and 15 conventional dental implants were inserted in 25 patients. Clip-bar, magnetic retainer and Locator® were fabricated for obturator retention. The survival rate of the ZIs was 94.2% (65/69) after a mean follow-up of 3.7 years. Reconstruction prevented the communication between oral cavity and nasopharynx so that speech and mastication function was fully recovered. The patients were satisfied with oral function and appearances after reconstruction. Postoperative complications presented an incidence of 4% (3/69), including facial fistula and soft tissue hyperplasia around ZI. Conclusion • ZI technique is a feasible treatment to reconstruct the maxillectomy defect with favorable clinical outcomes, providing good facial morphology and functional restoration, which avoids extensive bone grafting and shortens the treatment period.