COLUMN JACQUES – Lower alveolar nerve lateralization. 20-years follow-up

Vol. 11 – Number 44 – 2020 COLUMN JACQUES Page 27-33 Lower alveolar nerve lateralization. 20-years follow-up Jaques Luiz¹ Julia Helena Luiz² Flávia Sukekava³ ABSTRACT For oral rehabilitation through the installation of osseointegrated implants in the proper position, the presence of bone height and thickness is essential. In this sense, the rehabilitation of the posterior mandible is sometimes a challenge, even with several techniques of ridge augmentation, such as lateralization/transposition of the lower alveolar nerve (LAN). The objectives of this case report were to show the longevity and predictability of the lateralization/transposition technique of the LAN and its evolution. Two cases are reported, both in adult women, who needed rehabilitation of the posterior mandible with little vertical bone remaining. The first received LAN lateralization in 2000, and the second in 2014. Both returned for maintenance therapy without complaints of paresthesia, or problems with the prostheses or implants. Clinical and radiographic examinations showed signs of normality. In the last 20 years, both dental rehabilitation with osseointegrated implants as well as bone regeneration techniques have evolved. As a result, patients have been receiving procedures with less morbidity and greater longevity. LAN lateralization/transposition proved to be a technique of high predictability and longevity; literature and implant systems suggest neither sub-instrumentation nor perforation of mandible lower cortical to avoid fractures as well as to avoid expansive implants. Descriptors: Dental implants, lateralization/transposition of lower alveolar nerve, laser therapy, PRF. ¹ Esp., Me. and Dr. in Implantology – ILAPEO. ² General Practice, Postgraduate student in Periodontics – IOA. ³ Esp., Me., Dr.ª and Pós Doutora – FOUSP.