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

Objective 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).Methods 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 utilized 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.Results 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 degrees 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 < 1 mm 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).Conclusions The current study illustrates that this robotic implant system is sufficiently accurate for single-tooth implant placement.