Transnasal Implants as an Alternative to the Quad Zygomatic Configuration (238)

Bone loss in the maxilla can create clinical challenges when implants are planned. Periodontal disease, ridge resorption in the edentulous arch, and pneumatization of the maxillary sinuses can result in insufficient bone for implant placement absent of extensive osseous grafting. Zygomatic and pterygoid implants have been used increasingly to circumvent grafting the maxillary sinus to decrease surgical procedures, treatment time, and cost of treatment. These have demonstrated good clinical success and are becoming more common in the treatment of the severely resorbed maxillary arch. However, zygomatic implants can fail, and so alternative approaches need to be explored in order to preserve masticatory function for patients, especially in the severely resorbed maxilla. The transnasal implant (Z-Point) is an alternative to the Anterior-Superior Zygomatic implant in a quad zygomatic implant configuration that is appropriate in select circumstances.