Meta-analysis of methods used to assess implant stability.

PURPOSE

To evaluate correlations between Periotest, cutting torque or insertion torque, and/or the reverse torque test with resonance frequency analysis measurements.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The combined search terms dental implant, primary stability, resonance frequency analysis, removal torque, vibration analysis, torque, Periotest, cutting torque, and insertion torque and specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were used to retrieve eligible articles published between 1998 and 2008 (up to April 1) from PubMed, EMBASE, OVID, The Cochrane Library databases, and 10 journals by hand-searching. The pooled P value was calculated with the Fisher method. The correlation coefficients (r) were combined using fixed and random effect models. Heterogeneity of the studies was tested by performing the homogeneity test.

RESULTS

Fifty articles were identified, but 3 studies were excluded because of limitations in study design. Studies that fulfilled the inclusion criteria fell into a variety of categories (11 human cadaver, 16 clinical, 15 animal, and 5 in vitro studies). Assessment of P values revealed that correlation between cutting torque or insertion torque and resonance frequency analysis was significant (6 studies; P = .0022). Correlation between Periotest and cutting torque or insertion torque was significant (1 study; P = .015), and correlations between resonance frequency analysis and reverse torque test values (1 study; P = .319; r = 0.405) and Periotest and resonance frequency analysis (P = .28) were insignificant. Nine articles provided r values, and cutting torque or insertion torque and resonance frequency analysis showed a statistically significant and direct relationship of 55.4% (P = .000). One study provided an r value of -0.149. A statistically significant and direct relationship of 87.6% was found between cutting torque or insertion torque and reverse torque (2 studies; P = .000).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis of 47 studies showed a statistically significant correlation between cutting torque or insertion torque and resonance frequency analysis.