Multiple pterygoid approach: A novel technique with single-piece implants.

Abstract

The intended target site to engage a fixture distal into the tuberosity is the pterygoid apophysis that comprises the maxillary tuberosity, pyramidal process of the palatine bone, and the pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone. Pterygoid implants are incorrectly labeled in literature owing to the fact that they are actually root form conventional implants and should hence be termed as 'tubero-pterygoid implant'. An implant engaging the pterygoid apophysis/pillar taking distal maxillary support and avoiding successfully the cantilever situation is called a pterygoid implant. It essentially does not acquire primary with support of distal maxilla initially from the tuberosity. Instead, it makes its way into the apophysis and sometimes via a transsinus approach. A tubero-pterygoid implant, because of the root form screw shape fixture that is wide at the crestal aspect and converging toward the apex, takes the primary support from the tuberosity and engages the pterygoid pillar apically, thus allowing more bone to implant contact but has its limitation in deficient/atrophied tuberosity.