An implant-supported auricular prosthesis: a team effort between two South African tertiary institutions

Abstract

Primary osseo-integration with cranio­ facial implants is so reliable that it may be considered routine. Arcu ri ef nl.' reported that the use of titan ium endosseous screw implants proved to be a successful, predictable, and quali­ ty-of-life-enhancing technique for prosthetic anchorage in the midface region. Nishimura el nl.' reported a 100% success rate for implants used for auric ular prosth eses.This may be part­ ly the resu lt of a generous thlckness of compact bone in the craruu m . The Division of Prosthodontks, School for Oral Health Sciences, Universi ty of Stellenbosch and the Department of Dental Services, Faculty of Scien ce, Peninsula Technicon collabora ted to provide a maxillofacial serv ice and to create a training opportunity for senior undergraduate s at the two tertiary institutions. This article describes the prosthodontic management of an implant-supported auricu lar prosthe­ sis.