Neurophysiological Changes after Implant Placement Associated with Augmentation Procedures

Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST) of the German Research Network on Neuropathic Pain (DFNS) is an established psychophysiological approach to detect and quantify sensory disturbances. The protocol was adapted for extra- and intraoral use in the innervation region of the inferior alveolar nerve. This enables the measurement of neurophysiological changes associated with implant placement. To perform an implant placement, augmentation procedures have to be implemented in cases with an atrophied jaw. Defect size indicates the type of augmentation procedure. Test hypothesis of this study was that implant placement associated with augmentation procedures will increase the possibility for sensory disturbances. Furthermore, various hard and soft tissue augmentations might result in impaired quality of life during the healing period. Keywords: Neurophysiological changes, implant placement, augmentation procedures, QST