Short implants versus bone augmentation in combination with standard-length implants in posterior atrophic partially edentulous mandibles: systematic review and meta-analysis with the Bayesian approach

The use of short implants as an alternative to bone reconstruction techniques for the placement of standard-length dental implants is a debated topic. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis in order to assist in the clinical decision making about the most appropriate approach for the fixed rehabilitation of the posterior atrophic partially edentulous lower jaws. Only randomized trials with at least 1-year follow-up were included. Of the 1024 studies initially retrieved, 14 articles were selected and independently evaluated by two reviewers. Finally, four studies were included, and underwent data extraction and meta-analysis with the Bayesian approach. Both treatment approaches provide high implant survival rate after 1year of function. However, the probability of survival rate of short implants being greater than standard length implants is 84%, and the probability of complications using short implants being greater than standard-length implants is 15.7%. In spite of similar survival rates when the residual bone is sufficient for placement of short implants, the latter should be preferred to augmentation techniques and standard-length implants due to fewer complications, lower morbidity and greater comfort for patients.