Background. Osseointegrated implants allow patients with oromandibular defects to obtain complete or partial dentition via implant-assisted or implant-borne prostheses. Implants restore masticatory and occlusal function, improving oral intake and articulation. However, use of implants in head and neck cancer patients has been discouraged due to lack of data supporting their utility in these patients. This study attempts to establish the validity of using osseointegrated implants for dental restoration in head and neck cancer patients.
Methods. Six patients who underwent resection/reconstruction for head and neck cancer received osseointegrated implants. Integration was assessed clinically, radiographically, and mechanically at 4-8 months; oral intake, mastication, and articulation were evaluated 6-12 months after receiving the dental prosthesis.
Results. Osseointegration occurred in 92% (24/26) of the implants: 100% (14/14) in neomandibles and 83% (10/12) in native mandibles. One patient had implants (2/5) that failed to integrate. The remaining patients' implants were immobile, free of infection, with no osteoradionecrosis. These patients tolerated a regular diet and experienced weight gain and improved articulation.
Conclusions. The advent of osseointegrated implants and their compatibility with native and neomandible allows the restoration of functional dentition in patients undergoing ablative surgery for head and neck cancer.