Long-Term Survival of Implants Placed in Earlier Failed Implant Sites: an original research

Abstract

Objective:
This study evaluates the long-term survival and clinical performance of implants placed in sites where previous implants had failed. It aims to assess implant stability, peri-implant bone loss, and patient satisfaction over a five-year follow-up period.
Materials and Methods:
A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 28 patients (15 males, 13 females; mean age 52.3 ± 6.7 years) who underwent implant placement in previously failed sites. Strict inclusion criteria ensured patients had adequate bone volume, systemic health, and adherence to follow-up protocols. Implant stability was measured using resonance frequency analysis (Implant Stability Quotient, ISQ), peri-implant bone loss was assessed via digital radiography, and patient satisfaction was evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Clinical outcomes were monitored over a five-year period.
Results:
The overall implant survival rate was 85.7%, with 24 out of 28 implants successfully integrated. The mean peri-implant bone loss was 1.2 ± 0.4 mm, ranging from 0.6 mm to 1.8 mm. ISQ values progressively increased from 62.5 ± 4.1 at 1 month to 72.8 ± 3.2 at 5 years, indicating improved stability over time. Patient satisfaction scores on the VAS scale increased from 7.2 ± 1.0 at 1 month to 8.9 ± 1.1 at 5 years, reflecting enhanced function and comfort.
Conclusion:
Implants placed in previously failed sites demonstrate high survival rates, progressive stability improvement, and minimal peri-implant bone loss over five years. The study highlights the importance of careful case selection, optimized surgical protocols, and long-term monitoring to maximize implant success. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-ups is recommended to refine reimplantation strategies in compromised sites.