The correlation of different methods for the assessment of bone quality in vivo: an observational study

Author(s)

Oliveira, M. R. ; Goncalves, A. ; Gabrielli, M. A. C. ; de Andrade, C. R. ; Scardueli, C. R. ; Pereira Filho, V. A.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery; v. 51, n. 3, p. 10-pg., 2022-03-01.

Abstract

Different methods for the assessment of bone quality were evaluated in this study. Sixty alveolar bone areas were investigated. Peri-apical and panoramic radiographs were obtained with an aluminium scale to assess optical density. The Lekholm and Zarb (L&Z) classification was determined through radiographic analysis and the surgeon's tactile perception. A trephine was used to obtain a bone biopsy for assessment by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and histomorphometry. Primary stability of the implants was assessed using insertion torque (IT) and the implant stability quotient (ISQ). The optical density on periapical radiographs was correlated with IT, ISQ, and micro-CT (BV, BV/BT, Tb.Th, Tb.N, BS/BV, Tb.Pf, and SMI) (rho < 0.471, P < 0.028). Panoramic radiography showed a correlation only with bone surface (BS) and bone surface/volume ratio (BS/TV) (rho < 0.290, P < 0.031). IT showed a correlation with ISQ, histometry, and micro-CT (BV, BS/TV, Tb.Th, Tb.N, BS/BV, Tb.Pf, Tb.Sp, BV/BT) (rho < 0.550, P < 0.022). ISQ did not show any correlation with micro-CT. The L&Z classification showed correlations with the optical density obtained in the periapical radiographs, histometry, osteocyte count, IT, and micro-CT (BS/BV, Tb.Sp, Tb.Pf, BV, BS/TV, Tb.Th, Tb.N) (rho < 0.344, P < 0.042). The L&Z bone classification and IT are reliable methods, peri-apical radiographs and ISQ are acceptable, and panoramic radiography is not a reliable method for the assessment of bone quality. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 14/25253-1 - Comparison of histological, clinical and through imaging examinations evaluations of bone quality of maxillo-mandibular region for placing dental implants
• Grantee: Marina Reis Oliveira
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate