Results of oral implant–supported prostheses after mandibular vertical alveolar ridge distraction: a propos of 54 sites

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to present retrospective long-term results of oral implant–supported prostheses after mandibular vertical alveolar ridge distraction.Study DesignPatients who had alveolar mandibular distraction before oral rehabilitation from 1999 to 2009 were retrospectively reviewed.ResultsFifty-four distractions were performed in 25 women and 12 men with a mean age of 51.7 years. Seventeen patients had bilateral distraction. Most of the distracted sites were posterior. Global major complications were major misdirection (3.7%), fracture (3.7%), and permanent alveolar nerve paresthesia (1 patient). All of the patients experienced osseous improvement. Mean height of the distraction was 11.7 mm. A total of 127 implants were inserted with survival and success rates, respectively, of 100% and 96.2% (mean follow-up of 62 months). All of the patients had satisfactory oral rehabilitation.ConclusionsMandibular alveolar vertical distraction could be a reliable and effective procedure with precise indications. A less complicated implant distractor may simplify the procedure.