Augmented Reality Head-Mounted Device and Dynamic Navigation System for Post-Removal in Maxillary Molars.

INTRODUCTION: This study evaluates the feasibility of an augmented reality (AR) head-mounted device (HMD) displaying a dynamic navigation system (DNS) in the surgical site for fiber post-removal in maxillary molars and compares it to the DNS technique.

METHODS: Fifty maxillary first molars were divided into two groups: AR HMD + DNS (n=25) and DNS (n=25). The palatal canal was restored with RelyX fiber post (3M ESPE) luted with RelyX Unicem (3M ESPE). A core buildup was performed using Paracore (Coltene/Whaledent). CBCT scans were taken before and after post-removal. The drilling trajectory and depth were planned under X-guide software (X-Nav Technologies, Lansdale, PA). For the AR HMD + DNS group, the AR HMD (Microsoft HoloLens 2) displayed the DNS in the surgical site. The 3-dimensional deviations (Global coronal deviation [GCD] and global apical deviation [GAD]) and angular deflection (AD) were calculated. The number of mishaps and operating time were recorded.

RESULTS: Fiber post was removed from all samples (50/50). The AR HMD + DNS was more accurate than DNS, showing significantly lower GCD and GAD deviations and AD (p<.05). No mishap was detected. The AR HMD + DNS was as efficient in time as DNS (p>.05).

CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, the AR HMD can safely display DNS in the surgical site for fiber post-removal in maxillary molars. AR HMD improved the DNS accuracy. Both AR HMD + DNS and DNS were time-efficient for fiber post-removal in maxillary molars.