The ramus frame implant.

Abstract

Many procedures for increasing the denture-bearing area of the atrophic mandible have been advocated. This article presents an alternative method of treatment. The ramus frame implant is a metallic tripodal device designed to provide a denture-bearing surface when inserted into the mandible. The procedure for placement of the frame requires minimal time and instrumentation, and it may be performed on an outpatient basis. Fifty-six implants have been placed since 1974, and 51 (91%) are still in place and functional.