Film Image Transfer System (FITS): An Efficient Method for Proper Positioning of Orthodontic Mini-implants

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the newly developed Film image transfer system (FITS) for proper positioning of the orthodontic mini-implant in the narrow interdental space and considerations for better application. Materials and Methods: A patient who was planning to have orthodontic mini-implant treatment on the posterior maxilla was recruited to assess the feasibility of FITS. Dental radiographic film and bite record was taken. And then the film image was transferred on the photographic emulsion coated model using transfer light through film projector (enlarger). After exposing the photo emulsion coating on the model, the image was developed with a working solution for a paper developer and fixed. The surgical guide for the miniimplant was fabricated from the transported FITS data. Results: The completed surgical guide was easily placed intraorally, and allowed a simple and rapid placement of the mini-implant. The site of the implant placement was accurate as planned position. Conclusion: In the reported case, The FITS technique represents an effort to minimize risk to the patient and produce consistently good results based upon accurate information about the anatomy of the implant site.