Endoscopic approach to dental implantology.
OBJECTIVE
To describe an innovative miniature visualization surgical endoscope and endoscopic techniques applicable to dental implant procedures.


METHODS
A newly developed modular dental implant endoscope is introduced, and the first impressions from its use in different implant procedures are reported.


RESULTS
Details of the device that combines an endoscope, irrigation cannulas, and a surgical microinstrument channel are presented. The advantages of using it in dental implant procedures are described, and examples of how miniature visualization and surgical endoscopic techniques can be applied to increase the success of implantation are outlined. The new modular implant endoscope accurately identified all microanatomical and pathological structures, and simplified dental implant procedures.


CONCLUSIONS
Endoscopy should be considered not only for intraoperative observation and assessment of implant sites, but also should be applied for active assistance during implant placement procedures.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Barzilai Medical Center, Ashkelon, Israel. nahlieli@yahoo.com
Oded
O
Nahlieli
Joshua
J
Moshonov
Ami
A
Zagury
Eli
E
Michaeli
Nardy
N
Casap
D015519:Bone Density / Q000502:physiology; D003199:Computer Systems; D003758:Dental Implantation, Endosseous / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D017268:Dental Prosthesis Retention; D019723:Endoscopes; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D008443:Maxillary Sinus / Q000473:pathology; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000295:instrumentation; D008904:Miniaturization; D009092:Mucous Membrane / Q000473:pathology; D055096:Optical Devices; D013396:Suction / Q000295:instrumentation; D007507:Therapeutic Irrigation / Q000295:instrumentation; D020390:Tooth Socket / Q000473:pathology