Fitting of an 8.5-Millimeter Abutment for Bone Conduction Devices: Indications and Postintervention Course

Abstract

We present indications and clinical outcomes of fitting an 8.5-mm abutment for bone conduction devices. In 39 cases with a follow-up time of more than 12 months after fitting of an 8.5-mm abutment, the preintervention and postintervention courses were retrospectively evaluated. The outcome measures were indications for fitting and complications during the preintervention and postintervention courses (local skin reaction, skin level, revision surgery, and implant loss). Soft tissue overgrowth was the most frequent reason (31 of 39 cases) for fitting the 8.5-mm abutment. Severe skin reactions decreased by 7.9% after fitting, and the number of fixtures that remained free of any skin reaction increased by 32.2%. In 7 cases, soft tissue overgrowth required revision surgery before placement of the 8.5-mm abutment; further surgical intervention was needed only once. In 1 case, the 8.5-mm abutment was removed because of recurring soft tissue problems. No spontaneous abutment or implant loss occurred. This retrospective evaluation showed that fitting an 8.5-mm abutment is an easy step in managing soft tissue problems and preventing revision surgery. Also, it is of value in patients with a thick scalp that interferes with bone conduction device coupling. In these cases, we advise placing the 8.5-mm abutment during primary surgery.