Experimental validation of real-time analysis to assess micromotion in implantology

INTRODUCTION Long-term success of load-bearing implants require solid fixation of the implant to the host bone by the process of osseointegration. Osseointegration is achieved by the growth and mineralization of bone tissue onto and into the textured surface of implants. According to current theories on tissue differentiation, peri-implant tissue formation and subsequent mineralization are dependent on several factors, including the local mechanical environment in the interface zone [1]. Experimentally it has been shown that bone ingrowth can occur in the presence of some relative movement between the implant and host bone, while excessive movement (150 μm or more) can result in the formation of a fibrous membrane around the implant. Micromotion in the interface is determined by the local mechanical environment around the implant, which is dependent on the applied forces, implant geometry, and bone quality. Therefore the manner in which load is transferred from the implant to the host bone is a critical factor in determining its long-term fixation. Accurate assessment of primary mechanical stability is even more critical in areas such as dentistry where early loading has become increasingly accepted clinically. At present there exists no method of planning for surgery which provides an assessment of an implant’s mechanical stability. The aims of this study were: (1) to develop a method of incorporating fast structural analysis into surgical planning, and (2) to assess the accuracy of such an approach using an experimental approach.