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3D Planning and Printing of Patient Specific Implants for Reconstruction of Bony Defects
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Technical Design, Surgical Challenges, and Troubleshooting in a Fully Guided Implant Workflow
Sune Mulder van Staden1, Carl de Villiers2, Trevor Bath3
1Department of Oral Medicine and Periodontology, University of the Western Cape (UWC); smuldervanstaden@uwc.ac.za.
Journal of Visualized Experiments : Jove
|January 6, 2026
Summary
This study details a digital workflow for precise three-dimensional dental implant placement using cone beam tomography (CBCT) and surgical guides. It highlights the success of fully guided surgery while noting challenges and complications for optimal prosthetic rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Oral Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Optimal three-dimensional dental implant placement is crucial for successful prosthetic rehabilitation, impacting occlusion and aesthetics.
- Virtual planning using cone beam tomography (CBCT) allows for precise design of implant positions relative to patient anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a digital workflow for dental implant placement, from CBCT data import to surgical guide fabrication and implant surgery.
- To evaluate the success, challenges, and complications of a fully guided dental implant surgery protocol.
Main Methods:
- Utilized CBCT datasets and specialized software for virtual reconstruction and dental implant planning.
- Designed and printed surgical guides, including a pilot hole guide and a multi-stabilized implant guide for the maxilla.
- Performed fully guided implant surgery for four implants (FDI 15, 13, 22, 25), documenting procedures and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Achieved successful fully guided surgery for three implants (FDI 13, 22, 25).
- Encountered challenges and complications during the placement of implant 15 and during guide fixation pin evaluation.
- Identified the need for future considerations regarding virtual guide design and material resin dimensional stability.
Conclusions:
- The described digital workflow facilitates precise three-dimensional dental implant placement.
- Fully guided surgery offers significant advantages but requires careful planning to mitigate potential complications.
- Further research into virtual guide design and material properties is warranted to enhance predictability and minimize errors.
