What is this about?
- This article presents the results of a 3-year prospective study on Straumann® Zygomatic implants combined with the ZAGA concept for patients with severe maxillary atrophy.
- It highlights clinical outcomes, including implant survival, sinus health, soft tissue stability, and prosthetic success, with impressive long-term data.
- It also introduces Dr. Carlos Aparicio’s book, which provides in-depth guidance on mastering the ZAGA concept for clinicians.
New results of a prospective 3-year study
For patients suffering from severe maxillary atrophy, traditional rehabilitation concepts often involve complex bone grafting procedures, long healing times, and the risk of complications. Zygomatic implants have revolutionized treatment for these challenging cases, offering a faster and more reliable route to fixed prosthetic rehabilitation.
Now, a new prospective study by Dr Carlos Aparicio and collaborators highlights how the combination of the ZAGA (zygomatic anatomy-guided approach) concept and Straumann® zygomatic implants delivers exceptional clinical outcomes — even in the most demanding anatomical scenarios. The ZAGA concept adapts surgical technique to each patient’s unique anatomy to optimize implant trajectory, minimize complications, and preserve vital bone and soft tissue.
100% survival rate for both implants and prostheses
In this non-interventional study, 20 patients with severe maxillary resorption — many with complicating factors such as sinus opacities, bony discontinuities, or heavy smoking — were treated with 59 Straumann® ZAGA™ implants. All patients received immediate fixed screw-retained prostheses within 48 hours of surgery. Follow-up evaluations were conducted over 38–53 months (mean 46.5 months), using the ORIS criteria to assess prosthetic offset, rhino-sinus health, soft tissue stability, and implant stability. The authors report a 100% survival rate for both implants and prostheses. Sinus health was well preserved or improved in 84.7% of patients, while minor radiographic changes were noted in 13.5% without clinical symptoms. All implants demonstrated optimal prosthetic emergence profiles (ORIS Level I), and soft tissue conditions remained stable in 89.8% of cases, with only limited, non-inflammatory recessions or exposures in the remaining 10.2% of cases.
Straumann® zygomatic implants offer a predictable, effective, and durable alternative to bone grafting
This prospective study confirms that Straumann® zygomatic implants, placed according to the ZAGA concept, offer a predictable, effective, and durable alternative to bone grafting. Immediate loading shortens treatment time while restoring function, aesthetics, and patient confidence without compromising outcomes. The robust three-year follow-up provides valuable long-term evidence, demonstrating consistently high implant and prosthesis survival rates, along with stable sinus, soft tissue, and functional results. These findings reinforce zygomatic implant therapy as a sustainable treatment alternative for advanced maxillary resorption, achieved through the combination of precision-engineered implant design and an anatomy-guided surgical approach.
Download the full-text manuscript of the study:
Carlos Aparicio
Advanced Zygomatic Implants – the ZAGA Concept
2023 · Quintessence Publishing Co, Inc · 338 p. · ISBN 978-1647241773
For clinicians who wish to move beyond a procedural overview and better understand the principles behind the ZAGA concept Dr. Carlos Aparicio’s Book is an essential learning resource. It brings together decades of clinical experience and the contributions of leading international experts to present the ZAGA methodology in detail. You will find clear guidance on anatomy-driven decision-making, individualized implant trajectory planning, advanced soft-tissue management, and the selection of appropriate implant designs for different patient anatomies. In addition to step-by-step surgical protocols, the book offers a wealth of real-world clinical cases, complication management strategies, and evidence-based insights that bridge theory with daily practice. Whether you are beginning your journey with zygomatic implants or refining an established technique, this book provides the depth, clarity, and visual support necessary to fully master the ZAGA concept. Highly recommended for those seeking a complete, authoritative reference in the fast-evolving field of zygomatic implants.
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Key takeaways
- Straumann® Zygomatic implants with the ZAGA approach show 100% implant and prosthesis survival over three years, proving a reliable alternative to bone grafting.
- Patients benefit from immediate fixed prostheses, reduced treatment times, and preserved sinus and soft tissue health in most cases.
- For clinicians, the ZAGA concept book by Dr. Aparicio offers a comprehensive resource to apply anatomy-driven, evidence-based strategies in zygomatic implant therapy.