Semiautomatic device for in vitro/ experimental bone perforation in dental implant research

Abstract

PurposeThe present study presents a semiautomatic device developed to perform in vitro experiments using surgical drills for assisting dental implant research. It was built to perform tests independent of human direct contact, and contains an adjustable toolholder for engaging different types of implant contra angle hand pieces, in which different drills can be adapted. The researcher is able to make a range of adjustments on the machine, such as controlling the drilling force and depth. Materials and methodsThe device was tested on samples of both synthetic and natural bone with type I density, and a sequence of drills selected to perform the perforations. Drilling time and perforation force exerted during drilling were evaluated, as both parameters are required to be standardized. ResultsIt was observed that the drilling performed using the device was uniform using both types of bone, although the drilling time for the synthetic bone was higher. All perforations were exactly on the spot previously determined, and without variations in drill angulations. The perforation force was higher for the lance pilot drill for both bone types, and the natural bone required a higher axial force than the synthetic bone. ConclusionThus, we consider this device trustable to perform standardized analysis and provide accurate results. It can be used for tests performed in universities and companies that develop dental implant materials and products.