Accuracy of a novel semi-autonomous robotic-assisted surgery system for single implant placement: A case series

This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of dental implant placement at single-tooth sites using a novel semi-autonomous robotic-assisted surgery system (sa-RASS). Patients with single missing teeth were included. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was performed prior to surgery using a U-shaped silicone tube to develop a virtual implant placement and drilling plan. The sa-RASS was used for implant osteotomy and placement in conjunction with a surgeon. Cone-beam computed tomography data were utilised to evaluate deviations between planned and placed implants using a three-dimensional Slicer software. Data were analysed using the t-test and analysis of variance. Statistical significance was considered at P<0.05. Nineteen implants were placed using the sa-RASS. No adverse events or complications were observed during the surgery. Mean ± standard deviations between planned and postoperative implant positions were 0.90 ± 0.41 mm at the platform, 1.04 ± 0.47 mm at the apex, and 3.37 ± 1.51° for angulation. In a lateral direction, deviations were 0.72 ± 0.38 mm and 0.88 ± 0.47 mm at the platform and apex, respectively. Deviations in depth were all <1mm at both the platform (0.46 ± 0.33 mm) and apex (0.45 ± 0.32 mm). The apex deviation was greater than that at the platform (p = 0.036 < 0.05), mainly in the lateral distance (p = 0.037 < 0.05). The current study illustrate that this robotic implant system is sufficiently accurate for single-tooth implant placement. This study provides significant evidence to support the use of sa-RASS as a potential alternative to static guided surgery and dynamic navigation, in dental implant surgery.