Integrated polyetheretherketone patient-specific implants for multi-subunit midface concavity: a retrospective case series
Abstract
Background: Correction of multi-subunit midface concavity in patients without malocclusion remains challenging when multiple prefabricated implants are used, because implant transitions may be irregular and dissection around the infraorbital foramen is technically demanding. This study evaluated the feasibility, safety, and short-term aesthetic outcomes of integrated polyetheretherketone patient-specific implants designed using computer-aided design and manufacturing technology.
Methods: This retrospective case series screened consecutive adults treated with bilateral integrated PEEK patient-specific implants for multi-subunit midface concavity. Eligible patients had normal or essentially normal occlusion, clinical and CT-based moderate-to-severe concavity involving at least two adjacent subunits, adequate soft-tissue coverage, and completed postoperative follow-up. Demographic, implant-planning, satisfaction, and adverse-event data were reviewed. The primary outcome was late postoperative patient-reported aesthetic satisfaction assessed using a modified GAIS-derived 5-point scale. Early (10-30 days) and late (>90 days) satisfaction scores were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.
Results: Sixty-two implants were placed in 31 patients. The mean follow-up was 8.3 ± 2.1 months. Implant placement was successful in all cases, and no intraoperative reshaping was required. Late postoperative satisfaction scores were significantly higher than early postoperative scores (P…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a case series, done in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health. Reported size: 31 participants or records.
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