Cone beam computed tomography has become an essential tool in the diagnosis and planning for implant dentistry. New hardware and software developments have emerged to help implant surgeons to successfully adopt and use different systems in patients requiring prosthetically driven implant dentistry. However, there is the need to develop an adequate planning protocol that includes appropriate acquisition/data manipulation, appropriate use of software tools for interpretation, and appropriate application of such systems during implant surgery. This article examines essential characteristics of the entire implant-guided surgery planning process and points out potential sources of error that could affect clinical accuracy outcomes.
Key points
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Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and related hardware/software technologies enable surgeons to predictably perform prosthetically driven implant surgeries with adequate clinical accuracy.
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The use of stereolithographic drill guides requires the development of adequate planning protocols in all stages including:
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Image acquisition and data manipulation.
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Volume interpretation and treatment planning.
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Surgical application.
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Clinical accuracy of surgical guides is affected by:
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Errors in image acquisition.
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Errors in orientation and cross-sectional principles.
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Errors in surgical guide manufacturing.
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Type of surgical guide support or guide fixation.
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Full versus partial guidance during the osteotomy preparation.
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Full versus partial guidance during implant placement.
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