Fabrication of facial prostheses by applying the osseointegration concept for retention

Abstract

Initial clinical studies applying the osseointegration concept for retention of facial prostheses have been encouraging. The results of these preliminary investigations indicate new treatment possibilities with facial prostheses anchored to the cranial skeleton by osseointegrated implants. Osseointegrated rehabilitation of the maxillofacial prosthetic patient presents the potential for overcoming many of the disadvantages associated with conventional retentive methods. Fabrication and support for facial prostheses by using osseointegrated implants for retention are described.