Subjective and qualitative assessment of neural disturbance after inferior alveolar nerve transposition for dental implant placement

Abstract

BackgroundThe purpose of this retrospective study was to accumulate data regarding the quality of postoperative neurosensory function after inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) transposition for dental implant placement.MethodsThe study included seven consecutive patients who underwent IAN transposition surgery for the insertion of a dental implant into the atrophic posterior mandible. Of these, six patients (seven sides) were available for long-term assessment of postoperative IAN function. Neurosensory disturbance of the IAN was assessed objectively using the modified SW perception test reported by Semmes and Weinstein. In addition, the quality of nerve paralysis was assessed according to the criteria reported by Highet.ResultsThe median follow-up time was 49 months (range 12–105 months). No implant loss was observed during the follow-up. All patients experienced numbness immediately and the days after surgery. Complete recovery of neural function was observed on two sides; weak hypoesthesia was observed on two sides, moderate hypoesthesia on two sides, and severe hypoesthesia on one side. However, only one patient expressed concern about IAN function.ConclusionsIAN transposition is a useful method for placing implants in the atrophic posterior mandible. However, the procedure is complicated, with the possibility of some degree of neurosensory disturbance, although in most of our cases, it resolved within a clinically acceptable period.

Piezosurgery Assisted Inferior Alveolar Nerve Transposition and Simultaneous Implant Placement for Management of Vertical Mandibular Ridge Discrepencies

“…When the bone height above the IAN canal is less than 5 mm and the inter-arch space is insufficient to accommodate onlay bone grafts, the only choice for rehabilitating patients with Osseointegrated implants is lateral nerve mobilization. (1)(2)(3) IAN displacement has been employed for almost 20 years with a high rate of success and survival. It is, however, a difficult technique with a substantial chance of sensory disruption.…”

A prospective study on ultra‐wide diameter dental implants for immediate molar replacement

“…Procedures associated with implant placement in the posterior mandible when bone volume is inadequate, require advanced surgery. Transpositioning of the inferior alveolar nerve could be a useful method to increase the vertical space in the atrophic posterior mandible, but is often associated with neuro‐sensory disturbances . Cortico‐cancellous block grafts and alveolar distraction osteogenesis are alternative augmentation procedures with high implant survival, but also require extensive surgical intervention .…”

“…Transpositioning of the inferior alveolar nerve could be a useful method to increase the vertical space in the atrophic posterior mandible, but is often associated with neuro-sensory disturbances. 14…”