J Korean Acad Prosthodont.  2001 Feb;39(1):25-36.

An analysis and management of fractured implants

• Han CH
• Kim SH
• Hee SJ
• Ku Y

Abstract

Among the numerous factors contributing to implant failure, the most common are infection, failure of proper healing and overload. These factors may occur combined. Implant fractures are one of the complications resulting from overload. Implant fracture is not a common feature, but once it occurs it causes very unpleasant circumstances for the patient as well as for the practitioner. Only few studies have been reported regarding this subject. Thus, little is known about its solutions. It is important that analyzing reasons for implant fracture and finding appropriate solutions. Factors leading to implant fracture are design, material defects, nonpassive fit of prosthetic framework and biomechanical overload. Previous studies have reported that implant fractures ares associated with marginal bone loss and occur mostly in the posterior regions and that most patients showing parafunctional habits also have implant fracture. Abutment and gold screw loosening or fracture were also observed in some of the cases previous to implant fracture. Similar observations were seen in our hospital as well. The following cases will present implant fracture cases which have been successfully treated regarding function and biomechanics. This was achieved by means of using increased number of fixtures, increasing fixture diameter and establishing proper occlusion.

MeSH Terms

Humans