Edmond Bedrossian: Prosthetic and surgical biomechanics for force distribution when using the Zygoma concept

Dr. Edmond Bedrossian’s lecture is focused on the biomechanics of both the prosthetic and surgical factors regarding the use of zygomatic implants.  Multiple studies are reviewed demonstrating the long term success of zygomatic implants.  Additional research is discussed that demonstrates the importance of cross arch splinting to allow favorable stress distribution when both vertical and lateral forces are applied.  When a prosthetic screw loosens, cross-arch splinting is lost.  Therefore, the follow-up for a full-arch prosthesis needs to involve checking for loose prosthetic screws.

Surgically, the key is engaging multiple cortical plates.  Dr. Bedrossian discusses the importance of crestal bone in distributing forces.  He reviews a published classification for evaluating differing anatomies to determine how much of the implant will be contained within bone and how much will be outside bone.  He stresses that the trajectory of the implant does not change, only the anatomy of the patients.  Multiple treatments are shown involving varying numbers of zygomatic implants depending on the patients existing anatomy and available bone.  Dr. Bedrossian summarizes the importance of splinting, crestal bone and proper maintenance to allow for predictable long lasting results.

Dr. Edmond Bedrossian received his dental degree from the University of the Pacific and completed his Oral & Maxillo facial surgery training at Alameda Medical Center. He is a Diplomat of the American Board of Oral & Maxillo facial Surgeons and is in private practice in San Francisco, California. Dr. Bedrossian is also the Director of Implant Surgical training at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A Dugoni School of Dentistry. He has authored numerous articles and textbook chapters and is the author of the textbook "Systematic treatment planning for the edentulous patients", forwarded by P-I Brånemark. He lectures internationally and is a member of the Board of directors for the Brånemark Institute and the current President of the Brånemark Foundation North America.