Name of the Procedure:

Reconstruction of Mandible or Maxilla, Endosteal Implant (e.g., Blade, Cylinder); Partial

Summary

This procedure involves the partial reconstruction of the jawbone (either the mandible or maxilla) using an endosteal implant. This implant can be in the form of a blade or cylinder and is used to replace missing bone to support dental prosthetics.

Purpose

The procedure aims to address bone loss in the jaw, which can be caused by trauma, disease, or congenital defects. The goal is to restore the jaw's functional and aesthetic integrity to support implants for dental prosthetics, improving the patient's ability to chew and speak properly.

Indications

• Missing teeth with insufficient jawbone to support dental implants
• Jawbone loss due to periodontal disease
• Congenital jawbone deformities
• Trauma-related jawbone damage

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 8 hours prior to the procedure if general anesthesia is required
• Adjustments to medications as directed by the physician
• Pre-procedure imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess bone structure
• Blood tests to ensure the patient is in suitable health for surgery

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under anesthesia (local, sedation, or general, based on the complexity and preference).
2. An incision is made in the gum to expose the jawbone.
3. The bone is prepared using surgical tools to create a space for the implant.
4. The endosteal implant (blade or cylinder) is carefully inserted into the bone.
5. The gum tissue is sutured back in place over the implant.
6. Healing period: The implant is left to integrate with the bone (osseointegration), which can take several months.
7. In some cases, a temporary prosthetic may be placed.

The procedure uses specialized dental drills, blades, cylinders, and surgical instruments.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on complexity.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Oral and maxillofacial surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)
• Dental prosthodontist (for planning the prosthetic restoration)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Implant failure or rejection
• Nerve damage resulting in numbness
• Sinus complications (if maxilla is involved)
• Prolonged bleeding
• Swelling and bruising

Benefits

• Improved function of the jaw, enabling better chewing and speaking abilities
• Enhanced facial aesthetics and symmetry
• Stable foundation for dental prosthetics

Recovery

• Initial recovery time of 1 to 2 weeks
• Full osseointegration may take several months
• Patients should follow a soft diet initially
• Avoid strenuous activities and smoking
• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing

Alternatives

• Bone grafting procedures to augment the jawbone
• Subperiosteal implants
• Removable dentures
• Fixed bridges supported by natural teeth

Pros and Cons:

• Bone grafting may have longer healing times.
• Subperiosteal implants may be less suitable for severe bone loss.
• Removable dentures and fixed bridges do not offer the same stability as endosteal implants.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients under general anesthesia will be asleep and feel no pain. Those under local anesthesia or sedation will be awake but should feel minimal discomfort. Post-procedure, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and mild to moderate pain, manageable with prescribed pain medications. Proper care following the surgeon's instructions can aid in a smooth recovery.