Physical status assessment and anatomical considerations in patients requesting implant therapy

OBJECTIVES Implant dentistry, like any surgical area, requires a great knowledge of basic medical sciences to increase the success rate of our surgeries and provide safety for our patients by avoiding possible complications. The aim of this Module is to analyze two of the most important aspects of any type of surgical procedure: the physical status assessment and the knowledge of surgical anatomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS Recent literature found in the most important medical databases was evaluated for the purpose of this study. Our focus revolved around discussing the most recent publications and those that obtained the highest number of citations. Where possible, both national and international guidelines were selected to provide clear and synthetic information to readers. To enrich the article some clinical cases and images of anatomical dissections were selected to provide significant examples that can be useful both for less experienced surgeons interested in implant-supported rehabilitations and for the experienced implant dentists. RESULTS Due to the importance of these two subjects, it was only possible to analyze just a selection of key aspects: we started with the most common medical issues that are frequently reported in dental practices then we followed the same principle during the discussion of the anatomical aspects that need to be evaluated before oral surgeries of any kind to reduce the risk of complications. Some clinical cases are hereby described to help clinicians be prepared to plan successful surgeries. CONCLUSIONS Knowledge of physical status assessment and local anatomy followed by good surgical skills concur to dramatically increase the success rate of our surgeries. This Module can be useful both to novel implant dentistry professionals and to more experienced implant dentists. It is also important to understand that knowledge of these aspects and a precise collection of the pre-operative documentation can also protect clinicians from legal consequences in case a complication occurs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Through an effective physical status assessment and proper knowledge of the anatomy of the oral cavity and its surroundings, it is possible to achieve successful outcomes in implant dentistry.