Computer-guided implant surgery: A critical review of treatment concepts

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to conduct a critical literature review about the treatment concepts of computer-guided surgery in implantology to highlight indication about major advantages and complications of the technique. Materials, methods and results: The literature review was based on Medline database from 2007 to 2012 using the key words computer-guided implant surgery for studies written in English. For inclusion, publications had to meet pre-established criteria. Three reviewers independently selected 42 full text articles. The publications included: 18 clinical evaluations, 10 technical notes, 8 clinical reports, and 6 reviews. Conclusion: The scientific evidence available suggests that guided placement has at least as good implant survival as conventional protocols. However several unexpected procedure-linked adverse events during guided implant placement indicate that the clinical demands on the surgeon were no less than those during conventional placement.