Implant training: The Swiss experience

Recently I had the opportunity to attend the intensive hands on Master GBR/Sinus grafting course in Bern, Switzerland. The course is led by Prof. Dr Daniel Buser, Prof. Dr Thomas von Arx and Dr Michael Bornstein who have been widely published in the highly regarded International Journal of Oral Maxillofacial Implants and Clinical Oral Implants Research among others. With 20 years of GBR experience, this exceptional group is well qualified in leading the field in evidence-based guided bone regeneration techniques.

The focus of the philosophy, in the newly published Volume 3 ITI Treatment Guide, is the emphasis on case selection and risk management. The primary objectives are on maximizing the clinical outcome with high degrees of predictability and low risk of complications. The secondary objectives are to minimize number of surgical procedures, reduce patient morbidity and minimize healing periods. The SAC classification, being Simple - low risk; Complex - medium risk; and Advanced - high risk categories based on a number of local and systemic factors. This guideline clearly helps the clinician discern cases that they can manage themselves or perhaps need to refer to a more experienced operator. This course is highly recommended for the more advanced clinician who would like to base their decisions and clinical procedures on solid evidence.

It's a refreshing outlook on patient-focused evidence-based outcomes without being bombarded by unsubstantiated comments at the commercially driven day courses we are used to.

As a bonus, mid January is a perfect month for skiing on the gorgeous slopes of Zermatt while the locals are back at work!