Factors Affecting the Outcome in the Immediate Loading Rehabilitation of the Maxilla: A 6-year Prospective Study

This prospective study reports the 6-year outcomes for patients rehabilitated with an immediate loading protocol of the maxilla (Columbus Bridge Protocol). In this study, 164 implants were inserted in 37 patients and loaded within 24 to 36 hours. Four implants failed during the first 6 months. At the 6-year follow-up, a mean bone loss of 1.52 mm was found. Significantly (P .0083) less bone loss was found next to tapered implants compared with cylindric implants and next to machined collar implants compared with full acid-etched implants (P .0083). No significant differences in bone loss were found in tilted versus upright implants or in mesial versus distal implant sites. In addition, there were no significant differences relating to either the degree of abutment angulation or the reason for tooth loss.