The combined use of 3-dimensional (3D) imaging technology and computers to plan and execute precise implant placement is an emerging trend. Using a CBCT/DVT device generated tomographic image of the patient’s jaw, the dental surgeon plans the position, angulation and depth of the implant on a computer using sophisticated planning software.
The design is transferred to a plastic template, which the surgeon uses as a guide to drill and prepare the site for the implant(s). Computer-guided surgery offers the dentist a clear view of the bone condition and the final implant location, in addition to simplifying the planning and execution of complex procedures. It thus reduces the risk of surgical and prosthetic complications.

Straumann entered the emerging field of computer-guided implant surgery by acquiring IVS Solutions AG, an established German company developing and selling software applications for computer-guided surgery, including the design and fabrication of surgical templates. The acquired technology simplifies the planning and execution of complex implant procedures and thus reduces the risk of surgical and prosthetic complications. The acquisition in 2009 included the full range of IVS preoperative planning software products as well as the software development team.