Pain perception and expectation related to interradicular mini-implants insertion: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objectives: The aim of this systematic review was to compare the expectation and perception of pain reported by patients before and after the installation of interradicular mini-implants.

Materials And Methods: Electronic search was performed in six databases. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or non-randomized controlled clinical trials (nRCTs); studies using mini-implants in the interradicular region; assessment of pain intensity by visual analogue or numerical scale. The risk of bias assessment was based on the Rob 2 tool and Robins-I.

Results: A total of 1566 articles were retrieved, and 21 met the eligibility criteria. Six were classified as high risk, one as critical and the other one as uncertain, according to the Robins-I tool. In articles evaluated by the Rob2 tool, ten were classified as serious risk and three as moderate risk. A meta-analysis was also performed. Weighted means were calculated among the studies using the random-effects model and forest plots were generated. Heterogeneity was assessed through the Q test and I statistics. It was observed, with moderate evidence, that on a scale of 0 to 10, the pain expectation (effect size 4.75) is higher than that effectively pain generated by the procedure (effect size 1.94).

Conclusion: Pain expectation was greater than that actually generated by the procedure, being almost non-existent 7 days postoperatively.

Clinical Relevance: This study may help the clinician to reassure the patient regarding the sensations that could be experienced during and after the installation.