A retrospective study of an alternative technique for implant repositioning in the maxillary esthetic region

Background: Implant-bone block segment repositioning may be an option of treatment for patients with vertical alveolar bone atrophy.

Purpose: To assess implant-bone block movement, gingival outcome and the subjective appreciation of patients after an alternative treatment of an implant-bone block segment repositioning in the maxillary esthetic region.

Materials and methods: Patients who underwent implant-bone block segment relocation in areas of vertical alveolar bone atrophy in the anterior esthetic region were assessed. The outcome measures were implant failure, complications after initial loading, vertical bone augmentation, papilla index, width of the keratinized mucosa, and patient satisfaction.

Results: Twenty-five implants in nine consecutive patients were included in this study. During the follow-up period, only one implant failed. Vertical bone augmentation ranged from 3.0 to 8.4 mm (mean 4.9 mm). A significant improvement (P < .001) in the papilla index was observed, improving the esthetic outcome. Six patients (66.6%) had more than 2 mm of keratinized mucosa and all of the patients were satisfied with the treatment.

Conclusions: The esthetics and functional gingival outcome of oral rehabilitation in areas with vertical alveolar bone atrophy can be successfully improved with the presented technique, which had a high overall implant survival rate within a short period.