Long-Term Results of Endosseous Implants as Retention Elements of Orbital Epitheses, Reconstruction Techniques, and Aftercare Following Radical Tumor Resection

Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine the long-term results of implants in orbital reconstruction after exenteration. Materials and Methods: From 1998 to 2012, patients undergoing implant-supported rehabilitation after subtotal or total exenteration due to a tumor were included in a retrospective study. All the patients were evaluated for soft tissue reconstruction, irradiation, complications, abutments, hygiene index, implant mobility, and long-term success. Results: Forty-eight patients (aged between 27 and 81 years) were selected. A total of 187 implants were inserted. All the patients were supplied with epitheses after implantation in the long term. Of the 187 implants, nine implants placed on five patients were lost. The mean follow-up period was 34 months (ranging from 6 to 144 months). The 5-year survival rate was 88%. Conclusion: On the basis of this retrospective study of 48 patients with 187 implants, the following observations were made: (1) the 5-year survival of implants in nonradiated bone was 92%, and (2) the 5-year survival of implants in radiated bone was 86%. Extraoral implants should be presented as an option in orbital rehabilitation after exenteration. Schlagwörter: epithesis, exenteration, implants, orbit, reconstruction