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Updated: May 12, 2026
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A Postoperative Evaluation Guideline for Computer-Assisted Reconstruction of the Mandible
Published on: January 28, 2020
Accuracy of a computer-aided implant surgical technique
Michele Cassetta1, Luigi V Stefanelli, Matteo Giansanti
1Department of Oral Sciences, School of Dentistry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy. michele.cassetta@uniroma1.it
Summary
This study evaluated computer-designed surgical guides for dental implants, finding reasonable mean accuracy but high maximum deviations. Clinicians should exercise caution, especially near vital structures.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Surgical Technology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technologies are increasingly used in dentistry.
- Stereolithographic surgical guides offer potential for improved implant placement accuracy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively evaluate the accuracy of computer-designed stereolithographic surgical guides for dental implant placement.
- To quantify deviations between planned and actual implant positions.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of 111 implants placed in 10 patients using stereolithographic surgical guides.
- Comparison of pre- and postoperative computed tomography (CT) scans using specialized software.
- Calculation of global, angular, depth, and lateral deviations between planned and placed implants.
Main Results:
- Mean global deviation at the coronal aspect was 1.52 mm (range: 0.13–3.00 mm).
- Mean global deviation at the apical aspect was 1.97 mm (range: 0.34–4.23 mm).
- Mean angular deviation was 4.68 degrees (range: 0.10–15.25 degrees).
Conclusions:
- Stereolithographic surgical guides demonstrate reasonable mean accuracy for dental implant placement.
- Relatively high maximum deviations were observed, indicating potential variability.
- Clinicians must be aware of these deviations, particularly when placing implants near critical anatomical structures.
