[A new X-ray-free measurement method for postoperative 3D-position analysis of navigated inserted implants]

In this article a new X-ray-free measurement method for postoperative 3D-position analysis of dental implants is proposed. The advantage of this new method is the possibility of precise 3D comparison to preoperative planning data without the use of X-rays. Standard methods for postoperative implant analysis are performed manually on the basis of orthopantomography or computer tomography scans. The proposed method uses a navigation system and a specially designed measurement device. Analysis of the measurement data shows a mean position error of 0.2 mm +/-0.1 mm and a mean depth error of 0.4 mm +/- 0.3 mm. Thus, this method is suitable for postoperative analysis of the horizontal implant position and for comparison to preoperative planning