Resonance Frequency Analysis
Also written as: RFA — Resonance Frequency Analysis
A non-invasive diagnostic method for measuring implant stability by analysing the resonant frequency of a metal transducer attached to the implant, expressed as an Implant Stability Quotient (ISQ).
Full Definition
Resonance Frequency Analysis (RFA) is a non-destructive clinical test used to assess dental implant stability at placement, during healing, and prior to loading. A small magnetic or piezoelectric transducer (Smartpeg) is attached to the implant, and an electromagnetic pulse generates a resonance frequency that correlates with the stiffness of the bone–implant interface, expressed on the ISQ scale from 1 to 100. Higher ISQ values indicate greater stability. RFA is widely used to determine safe loading times, particularly for immediate or early loading protocols. In manuscript editing, RFA should always be expanded on first use; the device brand name 'Osstell' is a trade name and should be used with appropriate attribution or generalised to 'RFA device'.
Usage
Usage note: Expand 'RFA' on first use. Do not use brand names (e.g., 'Osstell') generically; treat as a trade name requiring attribution.
In Context
- "Resonance frequency analysis was performed at implant placement and at 8 weeks, with ISQ values of 68 and 76 respectively." — Clinical research article
- "The brand name 'Osstell' was replaced with 'resonance frequency analysis device (Osstell, Gothenburg, Sweden)' per journal style." — Copy-editing note