The article was authored by Dr. Alberto Rodríguez Sánchez, Dr. Susana Cuesta Frechoso, Dr. Aurelio Tobías and Dr. Alberto Sicilia. The first three authors belong to the Periondontal Department of the Odontology University Clinic of the University of Oviedo, and Prof. Tobías holds a position in the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC).

The study was carried out using a meta-analysis approach – the research method providing the soundest scientific evidence – and described the reliability of implant placement techniques using minimally invasive surgery and computer-guided surgery systems. The study includes more than 1,000 implants placed with 11 different systems without incisions or sutures, thus allowing for a better post-operative period and aesthetics results. Complex computing systems and a cone beam scanner were used to compare the planning results and the post-surgery results. Final data showed that the mean deviation between the planned position and the actual final position of the implant in the patient’s mouth or wax-up model ranged from 0.5 to 1 mm. These results show that this technology is a reliable tool when handled by skilled experts.

More than 3.000 clinicians and researches from more than 70 different countries were present in a meeting where more than 80 renowned clinicians shared their clinical and scientific knowledge. They presented their scientific evidence-based guidelines, and practical tips. 

On the other hand, the EAO (www.eao.org) announced the election of the new members of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors consists of 10 members, of which, only 4 make up the Executive Committee, a body in charge of the association’s executive management. Prof. Dr. Alberto Sicilia Felechosa is the first Spanish member of such a select and prestigious circle.

There are 6 committees that support the Management Committee: the Congress Committee that organizes future meetings (next meeting will be held in Copenhagen from the 10th to 13th October 2012); the Junior Committee is made up of the most prominent young dental surgeons and researches; the Certification Committee coordinates the certification of the EAO’s Dental Surgery Programme and it is the first European assessing body in this field; the Consensus Conference Committee, now preparing next meeting for February 2012 in Switzerland; and the Communications Committee, which spreads the role of the EAO and tries to position it as the point of reference in Europe´s dental surgery industry. This last Committee will also be directed by Prof. Dr. Alberto Sicilia.