Osseointegration and bone reconstruction in patients affected by Ectodermal Dysplasia

Aim: The objective of this work is to verify the possibility to achieve an optimal bone reconstruction through osseointegrated implants, bone grafts and guided bone regeneration also in patients affected by severe orofacial syndrome as Ectodermal Dysplasia. Dental and surgical-implantological treatment for patients affected by Ectodermal Dysplasia Syndrome may be very complicated. Guided bone regeneration membrane technique associated to bone grafting was used to facilitate placement of osseointegrated implants in a guided prosthetically position. Materials and Methods: Two groups with the same bony anatomical features were assessed. The first consisted of 13 Ectodermal Dysplasia patients, where 66 implants together bone grafts and membranes were inserted. In the second control group 120 implants with GBR were placed in 20 patients. The implants were controlled at second stage surgery, and at a follow-up of a 1 year, 2 and 3 years functional loading period. Results: The results showed no statistically significant difference in the osseointegration rate between the two groups. Conclusions: Despite anatomical defects associated with decreased occlusal vertical dimension and the diminished edentulous alveolar ridges, both in height and in width, osseointegrated implants together guided bone regeneration and bone grafts may be successfully used in patients affected by Ectodermal Dysplasia Syndromes.