Dynamic navigation for zygomatic implant placement: A randomized clinical study comparing the flapless versus the...

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Dental Implantology
• Surgical Navigation

Background:

• Zygomatic implants are used for severe maxillary atrophy.
• Flapless surgery can reduce morbidity.
• Dynamic navigation offers precision in implant placement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the accuracy of flapless zygomatic implant placement using dynamic navigation.
• To compare flapless versus conventional techniques in terms of accuracy and safety.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 20 patients with edentulous maxilla.
• Patients were divided into flapless (n=10) and conventional (n=10) groups.
• Dynamic navigation guided the placement of two zygomatic implants per patient under local anesthesia. Postoperative CBCT scans evaluated implant accuracy.

Main Results:

• All implants achieved osseointegration, except one in the flapless group.
• Statistically significant differences in accuracy were observed between flapless and conventional groups (p < 0.01).
• Average deviations: 5mm apical, 3mm coronal; angular deviation: 6°; vertical disparity: 2mm. Schneiderian membrane perforation occurred in 3 cases (1 flapless, 2 conventional).

Conclusions:

• Flapless zygomatic implant placement guided by dynamic navigation demonstrates satisfactory safety and accuracy.
• This technique offers a minimally invasive approach with potential clinical advantages, including use under local anesthesia.