Intra- and inter-operator concordance of the resonance frequency analysis. A cross-sectional and prospective clinical study.

OBJECTIVE: Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) provides an evaluation of implant stability over time. This analysis is a non-invasive, precise, and objective method. Several studies compare the RFA system with other devices. However, few investigations analyze repeatability and reproducibility between different operators. The aim of this study was to evaluate the intra- and inter-operator concordance of the Osstell® ISQ.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: RFA measurements were performed with Osstell® ISQ in a total of 37 implants placed in 21 patients. At the time of implant placement, 6 measurements per implant were taken by three different experienced operators. Three measurements were carried out consecutively and three by removing and placing the SmartPeg-Osstell® to assess intra-operator and inter-operator agreement.

RESULTS: Intra-operator concordance according to the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) showed high concordance. The ICC values were higher than 0.9 (p < 0.0001) for consecutive measures and alternative measures, being almost perfect of Landis & Koch classification. For inter-operator concordance The ICC was 0.709 (p < 0.0001) and 0.670 (p < 0.0001) for consecutive and alternative measures, respectively, both estimates being in the substantial category. In torque and ISQ values, no statistically significant differences were observed when operators and measurements were compared.

CONCLUSIONS: Osstell® ISQ system was stable both in intra-operator and inter-operator measurements. This device has excellent repeatability and reproducibility, demonstrating reliability to measure the stability of dental implants.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) is a non-invasive, objective, and reliable diagnostic method to determine the ideal moment to load the implant, as well as to predict possible failures.