Five-year follow-up of 8 and 6 mm locking-taper implants treated with a re-constructive surgical protocol for peri-implantitis: a retrospective evaluation

Abstract

Peri-implant infections, in absence of adequate treatment, can finally lead to premature loss of the implant. Among targeted protocols recently proposed for the treatment of peri-implant bone defects, also in case of short implants, reconstructive surgery represents a recommended option. The aim of the study. To evaluate the outcomes, in terms of maintenance, of a reconstructive treatment for peri-implantitis in locking-taper plateau-design single-crown implants, followed for 5 years after surgery. Objects and methods. A retrospective evaluation was conducted in 20 patients, treated with access flap surgery, concomitant chemical and mechanical surface decontamination and bone grafting (using a self-hardening mixture of bone substitutes and biphasic calcium sulphate, without the use of membranes). Results and discussion. Of the 21 implants assessed, 9 were 8 mm-length and 12 were 6 mm-length. Implant loss and treatment success were respectively 0 % and 80,95 % after 5 years from surgery. All parameters related to bone levels and soft tissues conditions significantly improved after 3 years and remained stable at the 5-year follow-up. Conclusion. The proposed protocol, followed by an effective supporting periodontal therapy, demonstrated to maintain in function all implants, providing adequate stability during the healing process after surgery, and avoiding the onset of disease relapse.