Smart Implants in Orthognathic Surgery: Integrating Patient-Specific Implants, Navigation Systems, and Bio-Intelligent Technologies

Azadi AR and Panahi O

Published on: 2026-05-25

Abstract

The convergence of orthognathic surgery and smart implant technologies represents a paradigm shift in craniomaxillofacial rehabilitation. This comprehensive review examines the integration of patient-specific implants (PSIs), surgical navigation systems, and emerging bio-intelligent technologies in orthognathic surgical practice. We present a systematic analysis of the digital workflow continuum from virtual surgical planning (VSP) and three-dimensional (3D) printing to intraoperative navigation and postoperative smart monitoring. Clinical evidence demonstrates that in-house designed PSIs combined with navigation systems achieve sub-millimeter accuracy, with reported deviations of 0.13-0.37 mm in three-dimensional space and stability maintained at 9-month follow-up. Emerging smart implant technologies, including sensor-embedded prostheses and bioelectric systems, promise to extend surgical precision into the postoperative period through continuous monitoring and adaptive tissue response. However, significant barriers remain, including high costs, technical expertise requirements, regulatory uncertainties, and limited long-term clinical outcome data. This review synthesizes current evidence, proposes a framework for technology integration, and outlines research priorities for advancing bio-intelligent orthognathic surgery.