Inter- and intraobserver variability in resonance frequency analysis of palatal implants--a technical note.

PURPOSE: To assess inter- and intraobserver variability in wireless resonance frequency analysis (RFA) stability measurements of palatal implants and to evaluate the influence of age, sex, time after implant insertion, and measurement direction on variability.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Three observers conducted wireless RFA stability measurements of palatal implants from 16 patients. Measurements were taken in anteroposterior and laterolateral directions and were repeated after 1 hour.

RESULTS

Data showed a small interobserver variation (1.93) with intraobserver variation (1.77) as its largest component. Time after implantation showed a strong influence (P = .027) on the interobserver variation.

CONCLUSIONS

The tested wireless RFA device can be considered a reliable instrument for measuring the stability of palatal implants. Multiple readings and observers could further improve measurement reliability.