A microsurgical approach to implant mechanical rescue.

The purpose of this paper is to describe and illustrate the value of using a microsurgical approach when resolving an implant mechanical rescue case (internally retained implant component fragments). Four cases involving screw retrieval issues are reviewed to demonstrate how microscopic visualization clarifies a diagnostic algorithm to determine correct treatment protocols. Microscopic visualization then continues to contribute an extreme advantage for guidance and predictability during treatment. When accompanied with appropriate tooling choices, the combination offers improved consistency and a significantly higher level of treatment success. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: The purpose of this paper is to describe the clinical advantages of incorporating a microsurgical approach when diagnosing and recovering failed dental implant components, such as fractured screws, stripped screws, or other small internal components. When accompanied with appropriate tooling choices, the combination offers improved consistency and a significantly higher level of treatment success.