Zygomatic implants: indications, techniques and outcomes, and the zygomatic success code

Abstract

The zygoma implant has been an effective option in the management of the atrophic edentulous maxilla as well as for maxillectomy defects. Brånemark introduced the zygoma implant not only as a solution to obtain posterior maxillary anchorage but also to expedite the rehabilitation process. The zygoma implant is a therapeutic option that deserves consideration in the treatment-planting process. This paper reviews the indications for zygoma implants and the surgical and prosthetic techniques (including new developments) and also reports on the clinical outcome of the zygomatic anatomy-guided approach. An overview of conventional grafting procedures is also included. Finally, a Zygoma Success Code, describing specific criteria to score the success of rehabilitation anchored on zygomatic implants, is proposed.