The complex nature of maxillary atrophy has necessitated technological enhancements for reconstruction surgeries. A new study published in the Journal of Oral Implantology reports that computer software can facilitate surgical planning in patients with severe bone atrophy. The software provides detailed imaging information to ensure optimum implant placement and positioning.

Due to the lack of bone volume and the poor bone quality of the jaw, traditional surgical techniques to correct maxillary atrophy can have greater risks and require longer recovery periods. Successful placement and positioning of implants is paramount to reduce these risks.

In this case, a 66-year-old woman was unable to wear her upper and lower complete dentures due to severe maxillary atrophy. Upon further consultation, doctors recommended a computerized scan to simulate implant placement in the most appropriate available zones.
Doctors believed that computer-guided implant placement was the only way to treat this patient without more complex reconstruction techniques. The surgery and postoperative care were completed smoothly. After 36 months, the patient rated her satisfaction as 9 out of 10 on a visual analog
scale.

Maxillary computerized tomography scans can reduce the risk of surgical complications and improve the postoperative course and functional outcomes by recommending the best possible implant placement and positioning information.

"Computer-Guided Implant Placement in a Patient with Severe Atrophy," Journal of Oral Implantology, Volume 34, Issue 4, 2008, published by Allen Press.

Full text of the article is available at
http://www.allenpress.com/pdf/orim-34-04-04_203_207.pdf

About the Journal of Oral Implantology
The Journal of Oral Implantology is the official publication of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and of the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics and is dedicated to providing valuable information to general dentists, oral surgeons, prosthodontists, periodontists,
scientists, clinicians, laboratory owners and technicians, manufacturers, and educators. To learn more about the society, visit:
http://www.aaid-implant.org/

About Allen Press. Inc.
Allen Press, Inc. plays a vital role in the dissemination of knowledge and information by partnering with organizations in the scientific, technical and medical community to promote their interests and achieve their goals. Founded more than 70 years ago, Allen Press is a trusted partner of scholarly societies, professional associations and corporations nationwide. http://www.allenpress.com

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