The latest winter edition of the ZAGA Cadaver Course took place in Barcelona from January 27 to 30, 2026. The course consisted of four days focused entirely on advanced rehabilitation with zygomatic implants and pterygoid implants. This ZAGA Course was held for the first time at ZAGA Centers’ headquarters, and included participants from 13 countries.
All ZAGA Zygomatic Courses are designed for clinicians of all levels, with little or extensive experience in the field, who want to deepen their knowledge of complex dental implantology. This training covered the ZAGA anatomy-based approach and a comprehensive module on pterygoid implants, backed by scientific evidence and extensive practical learning.
Supported by Straumann Group, Bontempi, and Dental 3D Models, participants trained with high-quality materials, ensuring a premium and realistic hands-on learning experience.
An International Faculty with Extensive Clinical Experience
Led by Dr. Carlos Aparicio, creator of the ZAGA Concept, the ZAGA Course faculty guided participants through a clinically coherent learning pathway that addressed some of the most demanding scenarios in maxillary rehabilitation.
The ZAGA Cadaver Course was complemented with two more professionals in the field:
- Dr. Adi Lorean (ZAGA Center Tel Aviv) presented and led the module on pterygoid implants, focusing on anatomical considerations and surgical applications in complex dental cases.
- Dr. Arturo Bilbao (ZAGA Center, A Coruña and Lugo) shared his experience with zygomatic implants for cancer reconstruction, exemplifying how the ZAGA Philosophy can be applied to restore function for patients with severely compromised oncological conditions.
Three Days of Hands-On Training with Anatomical 3D Models
An important aspect of the ZAGA Cadaver Course is the gradual transition from theoretical knowledge to practical skills. During the first three days, attendees took part in extensive hands-on training using patient-based dental 3D models, allowing participants to:
- Apply the ZAGA Concept to different anatomical scenarios
- Learn how and when to use pterygoid implants
- Practice surgical methods in a safe setting
- Refine implant positioning and angulation
- Improve confidence before transitioning to surgery
In addition to training on different real patient–specific 3D model cases, participants had the opportunity to test two Zygo model materials—Zygo “Vampire” and Zygo White—both supplied by Dental 3D Models.
Day Four: Cadaver Surgery with Cryopreserved Heads
The last day of the course was completely dedicated to hands-on surgical training with cryopreserved donor cadaver heads, providing participants with one of the most realistic learning experiences available in implant education: Working under real surgical conditions, attendees consolidated prior knowledge and translated it into precise surgical execution. This session represented the culmination of the four-day program, bridging the gap between training and clinical practice.
Supporting the ZAGA Social Program
Throughout the ZAGA Cadaver Course, participants had the opportunity to purchase Dr. Carlos Aparicio’s book, “Advanced Zygomatic Implants: The ZAGA Concept,” thereby contributing to the ZAGA Social Program.
Thanks to donations from participants, a total of 1400 € was raised.
The total amount from book purchases will go directly to supporting edentulous patients with limited financial resources and to promoting training in advanced dental implantology.
On the last day, after the hands-on session with the cadavers, Dr. Carlos Aparicio signed the book for all participants, leaving everyone with a meaningful personal memory of the course.
The social event of the ZAGA Zygomatic Cadaver Course
During the social event of the ZAGA Zygomatic and Pterygoid Implant Course, diplomas were handed out to all participants and everyone enjoyed a magnificent evening with views of the Sagrada Família.
In addition, the prize was awarded to the winner of the Social Media Contest that took place throughout the course.
What do participants think about the ZAGA Cadaver Course?
The course has been a resounding success, as evidenced by the results of the participant surveys:
- Overall evaluation of the ZAGA Cadaver Course: 10/10
- Theory sessions: 9,7/10
- Hands-on 3D Models: 10/10
- Hands-on Cadavers: 10/10
- Pterygoid Module: 9,57/10
The ZAGA Course received comments from participants such as:
“A very high level and comprehensive course, with excellent international standards.” – Dr. Luis Ricardo Sánchez, participant at the ZAGA Cadaver Course in Barcelona 2026
“An excellent professor: very patient, with clear and thorough explanations.”- Dr. Daniel Acuña, participant at the ZAGA Cadaver Course in Barcelona 2026
Next: ZAGA Proficient Course on Remote Anchorage Solutions: Singapore, March 27-29, 2026
Hands-on surgical training with Dental 3D Models.
Faculty: Dr. Carlos Aparicio and Dr. Samintharaj Kumar.
🌐 AI-powered simultaneous translation will be available in all languages.