The critical-size supraalveolar peri-implant defect model: reproducibility in histometric data acquisition of alveolar bone formation and osseointegration.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this report is to present the reproducibility of outcomes assessments in the Critical-Size Supraalveolar Peri-Implant Defect Model.


METHODS
Two examiners without specific experience in histological analysis and one experienced examiner performed the histometric evaluation. A comprehensive training program in data acquisition and histological analysis was established, the inexperienced examiners underwent approximately 12 h of training over multiple sessions. A custom-designed image analysis software macro and a computer-based image system were used to analyse digital images generated by a microscope camera system. Nine parameters for newly formed and resident bone were evaluated. Examiners performed histometric analysis using 36 histologic sections selected from critical-size supraalveolar peri-implant defects in 12 male Hound Labrador Mongrel dogs. Buccal and lingual measurements were performed in 72 sites. Intra- and inter-examiner reproducibility were evaluated using the concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) and means +/- SD of the differences. Systematic errors were evaluated using an F-test for equality of means and variances.


RESULTS
Intra-examiner reproducibility was high for all parameters evaluated, the lowest CCC observed being 0.87. Inter-examiner reproducibility was also high, most CCCs exceeding 0.90. Minor systematic errors for intra- and inter-examiner comparisons were occasionally observed. The results imply a high temporal stability because recordings were performed 3 months apart. Measurement errors were stable throughout the range of observations for all parameters.


CONCLUSIONS
High examiner reproducibility and temporal stability can be achieved for histometric data acquisition using the Critical-Size Supraalveolar Peri-Implant Defect Model. Examiner reproducibility should be routinely assessed, reported, and accounted for to assure the quality of evidence generated by preclinical studies.
Lee
Jaebum
J
Laboratory for Applied Periodontal and Craniofacial Regeneration, Departments of Periodontics and Oral Biology, Medical College of Georgia, School of Dentistry, Augusta, GA, USA.
Tran
Quoc
Q
Seeba
Gary
G
Wikesjö
Ulf M E
UM
Susin
Cristiano
C
D016301:Alveolar Bone Loss / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology*; D000818:Animals; D003758:Dental Implantation, Endosseous / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D015921:Dental Implants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004285:Dogs; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008297:Male; D023421:Models, Animal; D016348:Osseointegration / Q000502:physiology*; D023861:Photography, Dental; D015203:Reproducibility of Results
D015921:Dental Implants