Augmented Reality Improves Accuracy of Dynamic Computer-Assisted Implant Surgery: An In Vitro Analysis

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Surgical Navigation Technologies
• Augmented Reality Applications

Background:

• Dynamic computer-assisted implant surgery (dCAIS) utilizes navigation systems for precise implant placement.
• Augmented reality (AR) smart-glasses offer potential for enhanced visualization during surgical procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the accuracy of dCAIS with and without AR smart-glasses visualization.
• To compare the trueness and precision of implant osteotomies performed under different guidance conditions.

Main Methods:

• Simulated surgeries (n=40) were conducted on a typodont model using dCAIS with standard screen-based guidance and with AR smart-glasses (dCAIS+SG).
• Postoperative CBCT scans analyzed 3D deviation at the crestal level as the primary outcome.
• Paired t-tests were used to compare deviations between the two guidance methods.

Main Results:

• dCAIS with AR smart-glasses (dCAIS+SG) showed significantly lower mean 3D deviation at the crest (0.27 mm) compared to standard dCAIS (0.32 mm) (p=0.02).
• The improvement was mainly due to reduced mesiodistal deviation with AR smart-glasses (0.09 mm vs. 0.20 mm; p<0.0001).
• Angular deviation and precision were comparable between both groups.

Conclusions:

• AR smart-glasses enhance the trueness of dynamic navigation in implant surgery.
• The integration of AR into dCAIS improves visualization and may enhance workflow ergonomics.
• AR technology does not negatively impact the precision of the surgical navigation system.