Implant position accuracy using dynamic computer-assisted implant surgery (CAIS) combined with augmented reality: A randomized controlled clinical trial.

Background/purpose: Computer-assisted implant surgery (CAIS) is increasingly performed to reduce deviations in implant position. Dynamic CAIS or navigation systems provide instant display of implant drilling instruments and patient positions directly on the computer monitor. Augmented reality (AR) technology allows operators to visualize real-time information projected onto the lenses of AR glasses. Although AR is being used in medical applications, there are few clinical studies on applying AR glasses to dental implants. The purpose of this randomized clinical study was to compare the accuracy of implant position using the dynamic CAIS with and without AR glasses.

Materials and methods: Twenty patients who needed a single dental implant were randomly divided into two groups: combined dynamic CAIS with AR glasses (AR glasses group, n = 10) and dynamic CAIS without AR glasses (non-AR glasses group, n = 10). Three-dimensional (3D) deviations of implant platform, apex and angular deviations were measured and analyzed using independent t-tests (P < 0.05).

Results: The 3D angular deviations in the AR glasses and non-AR glasses groups were 1.47 ± 1.01° and 2.42 ± 0.76°, respectively. Mean 3D entry point and apical deviations were 0.75 ± 0.45 mm and 0.87 ± 0.45 mm in the AR glasses group, whereas the non-AR glasses group were 1.11 ± 0.44 mm and 1.18 ± 0.50 mm, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups.

Conclusion: Implant position accuracy using dynamic CAIS with AR glasses was similar to dynamic CAIS without AR glasses during a single implant placement.