Pterygoid implants were first proposed by Linkow in 1975. A pterygoid implant is defined as an axial implant placed through the maxillary tuberosity with fixation apically in the
pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone and in the pyramidal process of the palatine bone.
Many studies carried out with this type of implant have demonstrated a very good success rate – 96.45% (Monteiro and co-authors) and 98.6% for Rodriguez and co-authors (for 454 implants), with a recommended implant diameter of 3.75 mm for 18 mm length. Depending on the actual anatomy, 3.3–4.1 mm diameter, 16–21 mm long implants may be used.
New Pterygoid implants CompressiveMP were designed under the guidance of Henri Diederich, Luxembourg with the collaboration of the Swiss company TRATE AG.
These implants have a surface treatment HA/TCP and have a conical shape with compressive threads.
Pterygoid implants provide strong cortical anchorage in the maxilla. It is an alternative treatment option for patients with highly atrophic maxillae without the need for extensive augmentation procedures. The availability of dense cortical bone for engagement of the implant encourages its use. The location of the posterior implant is dictated by the dimensions and quality of the tuberosity.