Clinical Factors Affecting the Accuracy of Guided Implant Surgery-A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

Objectives: To systematically review the current dental literature regarding clinical accuracy of guided implant surgery and to analyze the involved clinical factors.

Material and methods: PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched. Meta-analysis and meta-regression analysis were performed. Clinical studies with the following outcome measurements were included: (1) angle deviation, (2) deviation at the entry point, and (3) deviation at the apex. The involved clinical factors were further evaluated.

Results: Fourteen clinical studies from 1951 articles initially identified met the inclusion criteria. Meta-regression analysis revealed a mean deviation at the entry point of 1.25 mm (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22-1.29), 1.57 mm (95% CI: 1.53-1.62) at the apex, and 4.1° in angle (95% CI: 3.97-4.23). A statistically significant difference (P < .001) was observed in angular deviations between the maxilla and mandible. Partially guided surgery showed a statistically significant greater deviation in angle (P < .001), at the entry point (P < .001), and at the apex (P < .001) compared with totally guided surgery. The outcome of guided surgery with flapless approach indicated significantly more accuracy in angle (P < .001), at the entry point (P < .001), and at apex (P < .001). Significant differences were observed in angular deviation based on the use of fixation screw (P < .001).

Conclusions: The position of guide, guide fixation, type of guide, and flap approach could influence the accuracy of computer-aided implant surgery. A totally guided system using fixation screws with a flapless protocol demonstrated the greatest accuracy. Future clinical research should use a standardized measurement technique for improved accuracy.

Keywords: Accuracy; Computer-assisted; Dental implants; Guided surgery; Surgical guides.