APCs in sinus floor augmentation

After tooth loss in the posterior area of the maxilla, sinus floor elevation is often required to compensate the vertical bone loss due to sinus pneumatization. This narrative review reports on the potential benefits of autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) during this procedure. As for transcrestal approach, APCs have been used as "sole" substitute/graft. However, because of the low number of clinical trials available with PRGF, and even none for PRP, no definitive conclusions can be made regarding their efficacy. The number of studies on the use of L-PRF were outnumbered indicating good feasibility for vertical bone gain, with a high implant survival rate and a low degree of complications. PRP and PRGF have not been studied as a "single/sole" substitute for a one-stage lateral window approach, probably because of the weak physical characteristics of the membranes. L-PRF alone appears to be a predictable grafting material for lateral maxillary sinus grafting and a reduced RBH should not be considered as a risk factor. Compared to a "standard" bone substitute L-PRF shows slightly less vertical bone gain (consider enough membrane application and use of bony window as new sinus floor roof over the implant apices), enhanced early resorption (first 6 months after application), but a similar stable bone gain afterward. For a two-stage lateral window approach, APCs "alone" cannot be recommended, due to their weak withstand to the sinus pneumatization forces. APCs combined with bone substitutes seem to accelerate bone formation, without any additional benefits on the long-term new bone gain. The use of L-PRF membranes for the treatment of perforations appears to be an effective treatment option, but further clinical studies are needed to confirm this. Even though the abovementioned statements are based on large numbers of studies, additional RCTs comparing APCs with different types of grafting procedures for sinus elevation are needed.

The Use of Allograft Bone in the Lateral Approach of Sinus Floor Elevation: A Systematic Review of Clinical Studies

Background and Objectives: The aim of this systematic review was to assess the efficiency of using allografts for sinus lift. Materials and Methods: This systematic review was written under the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and recommendation of the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Three electronic databases were screened until October 2023. The risk of bias was assessed according to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed for median bone volume and implant survival rate. Results: From 321 articles retrieved, 7 articles were included in this review. A comparison between freeze-dried bone allograft (FDBA) and deproteinized bovine bone (DBB) for mean bone volume indicated a weighted mean difference (WMD) of -0.17 [-0.69, 0.36] (95% confidence interval (CI)), p = 0.53. For implant survival rate, a comparison was made between FDBA and autogenous bone indicating a risk ratio (RR) of 1.00 [0.96, 1.05] (95% CI), p = 1.00. Conclusions: The available evidence suggested that allograft bone can be used in sinus lift procedures. The results obtained are insufficient to compare with other types of bone graft, requiring a longer follow-up time. Future clinical trials are needed in order to evaluate the advantages of using allograft bone.

[Elimination of defects in the Schneiderian membrane during sinus lift operations]

PURPOSE

Evaluation of the effectiveness of a new method of plasty of an extensive defect in the mucous membrane of the Schneiderian membrane, which occurs during the sinus lift operation, using an artificial collagen membrane and a developed method for fixing it.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 188 patients took part in the study, all of these patients underwent an open sinus lift operation with simultaneous or delayed implantation. Operations were performed under balanced anesthesia. Six months after the operation, according to computed tomography, the height of the formed bone regenerate was estimated. In the area of each missing tooth, the initial bone height and the resulting bone grafting were assessed. Then we compared the average values before and after the operation, the average height difference before and after the operation.

RESULTS

In 19 patients during the sinus lift there was an accidental extensive rupture of the mucous membrane of the maxillary sinus. Elimination of the mucosal defect was carried out according to our patented method. All 188 patients were diagnosed with partial loss of teeth with bone tissue deficiency in the distal maxillary sinus. The height of the alveolar process in the projection of missing teeth ranged from 0.5 mm to 5 mm. Delayed dental implantation was performed when the height of the alveolar bone was less than 3 mm, direct when the presence of 3-5 mm. After 6 months, dental implants were installed in the reconstruction zone, after another 6 months - rational prosthetics.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed method of plastic surgery has the following advantages. Firstly, it allows to eliminate the defect of the mucous membrane together with an increase in the height of the alveolar ridge. Secondly, after this method, the integrity of the mucous membrane will be restored. Thirdly, with an alveolar bone height of 3 mm or more, dental implants should also be installed.

Prevalence and Characteristics of the Maxillary Sinus Septa in a Saudi Arabian Sub-population: A Retrospective Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)-Based Study

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to investigate and determine the prevalence, location, and morphological differences of the maxillary sinus septa using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images in the Madina region and to discuss its clinical implications during sinus surgery.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective cross-sectional radiographic analysis of 808 CBCT scans from patients who attended Taibah University's College of Dentistry between December 2018 and June 2023. Age, gender, number of septa present per side, location (anterior, middle, posterior), morphology (complete or partial), and type (primary or secondary) were among the study variables. For data statistics, correlation analysis was utilized.  Results: Eight hundred eight CBCT scans were included with a mean age of 34.7±15.08. Septal bone was absent in 60.64% of the sinuses examined. Single septa were more common than multiple septa (p=0.009). Bilateral septal presence and the left septal bone were more common than the right, but none of these distributions were statistically significant. Males showed more sinus septa compared to females, but the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.420). Single septa were more prevalent in people under the age of 25.

CONCLUSION

More than 60% of the Madina population had patent sinus cavities with no septal processes, but males with single septal processes predominated.

A Study of Two Novel Techniques for One-stage Closure of Chronic Oroantral Fistula and Sinus Floor Lift

PURPOSE

This study aimed to compare two novel techniques for chronic oroantral fistula (OAF) closure combined with maxillary sinus floor elevation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten patients who had implant installation needs but suffered from a chronic OAF were enrolled in the study from January 2016 to June 2021. The technique applied involved OAF closure and simultaneous sinus floor elevation by either a transalveolar or lateral window approach. Bone graft material evaluation results, postoperative clinical symptoms and complications were compared between the two groups. Student's t -test and χ 2 test were used to analyze the results.

RESULTS

In this study, 5 patients with a chronic OAF were treated with the transalveolar approach (group I), and 5 were treated with the lateral window approach (group II). The alveolar bone height was significantly higher in group II than in group I ( P ＜0.001). The pain at 1 day ( P =0.018) and 3 days ( P =0.029) postoperatively and facial swelling at 7 days ( P =0.016) postoperatively were obviously greater in group II than in group I. There were no severe complications in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

The techniques combined OAF closure with sinus lifting to reduce surgical frequency and risks. The transalveolar approach resulted in milder postoperative reactions, but the lateral approach could provide more bone volume.

The CBCT Retrospective Study on Underwood Septa and Their Related Factors in Maxillary Sinuses-A Proposal of Classification

Introduction. The presence of bone septum in the maxillary sinus is one of the most common anatomical findings. So-called Underwood septa (US) are an atypical bone formation in the maxillary sinuses. Mostly they are quite easily found in CBCT studies and have major importance in sinus lift procedures in dental surgery. Furthermore, the shape, location, and size of the bony septa are important in each maxillary sinus surgery. Material and methods. A retrospective study of 120CBCT scans from the authors' own database was conducted. Results. Approximately 37.5% of each CBCT was associated with the occurrence of US, while just 25% had a full septum, and a total of only 14 patients had a half septa. More females have US, while healthy pneumatized maxillary sinus is most commonly found (82.22%). There is no correlation between the occurrence of silent sinus syndrome (p = 0.174), mucosal thickening (p = 0.325), or retention cyst formation (p = 0.272). Most sinuses are without any opacification in CBCT evaluation (91.11%), while other syndromes are not statistically relevant. Conclusions. It seems that the occurrence of Underwood septa is not statistically related to any clinical, radiological, or pathological condition within the sinus (p > 0.05). Furthermore, a more full or partial appearance of US was found in female patients.

Digitally Guided Lateral Sinus Floor Elevation With Simultaneous Implant Placement: 3 Case Reports With Technical Considerations

A sinus floor elevation via lateral window (LSFE) is one of the most widely used bone augmentation procedures for implant therapy in the posterior area of the maxilla. Locating and preparing a correct opening window on the lateral sinus wall is a key step of this procedure. Conventionally, the surgeon designs and locates the window after the flap is reflected based on the information obtained from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images or other diagnostic aids. Nevertheless, in spite of the advancements in CBCT imaging, clinicians may still experience hardships in situating and procuring meticulous access to the maxillary sinus by using CBCT alone. Therefore, in cases requiring an LSFE simultaneous to implant placement, a maxillary sinus surgical guide has been tested and reported to be the amiable method to be utilized as a conjunct to prevent unpredictable consequences according to its application in implying both the direction for the implant and the location of the lateral window. This article presents 3 clinical cases with a fully digital approach to guide the opening of the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus as well as the simultaneous placement of a single implant in an ideal 3D position. Based on the CBCT images and intraoral scan, a surgical guide was fabricated based on 3D software. During surgery, this teeth-supported template can be placed intraorally, guiding sinus window opening preparation. This technique makes the sinus window opening procedure simple and predictable, reduces surgical time and the risk of complications, and allows the placement of the implant in the ideal 3D position.

Correlations between Dental Implant Infectious Pathologies and Maxillary Sinusitis: A Review Article

(1) Background: The demands of patients for aesthetic and functional rehabilitation of edentulous areas led to the use of dental implants as therapeutic means on an increasingly large scale. This aspect determined the appearance of some infectious pathologies with a peri-implant starting point that can be complicated by various sinus diseases. The purpose of this review article is to synthesize the existing information in the specialized literature regarding the existing correlations between peri-implant and maxillary sinusitis. (2) Methods: The articles published in five databases were researched using different combinations of search terms. We selected 12 articles from the 250 found, by applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria and removing duplicates. (3) Results: We analyzed the included studies and we found that all of them reported a positive correlation between maxillary sinusitis and peri-implant infectious diseases. There are also reported other pathologies with a peri-implant infectious disease as a starting point such as abscesses, oro-antral communications, or foreign body reactions due to implant or bone graft materials migration. (4) Conclusions: This scoping review highlighted the existence of correlations between peri-implant and sinus pathology and the importance of preventing peri-implant diseases of an infectious nature to avoid the occurrence of these complications.

Characteristics of maxillary sinus ostia and their correlation with anatomic variations of the osteomeatal complex: Indications for sinus floor elevation

Background

Knowledge of the anatomy and variations of the maxillary sinus is essential for reducing oral surgery complications, such as sinus floor elevation, and increasing surgery success. The CBCT images of 385 patients were examined.

Materials and Methods

The prevalence, localization, and height of PMO (Primer Maxillary Ostium) and AMO (Accessory Maxillary Ostium) were evaluated with respect to sex, dentition, dental treatment, Schneiderian membrane (SM) thickness, concha bullosa, Haller Cells, and septal deviation.

Results

The PMO was present in 87.3% of all patients. Further analysis showed that the mean PMO diameter was 1.42 ± 0.62 mm. Although 11.6% of the PMO was in the inferior region, 60.4% was in the middle and 28% in the superior region. The effect of age and SM on the height and diameter of the PMO was found to be statistically significant. An AMO was present in 20% of the CBCT images. The mean AMO diameter was 2.55 ± 1.25 mm. Although 45.4% of the AMO was in the inferior region, 48% was in the middle and 6.6% was in the superior region. Moreover, SM thickness seemed to influence the height. A significant positive relationship was found between the PMO and AMO height. Also, a significant relationship was observed between the presence of the AMO and septum deviation.

Conclusion

The presence of the AMO, PMO diameter, and height should be added to the preoperative evaluation criteria for the success of sinus floor evaluation. Specifically, sinonasal and demographic conditions should be carefully examined preoperatively for the long-term success of the surgery.

Evaluation of the effect of direct sinus lift surgery on maxillary sinus volume by Mimics software

Introduction

Sinus lift surgery allows sufficient volume of bone to be created in the posterior part of the maxilla. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in maxillary sinus volume after a sinus lift and the rate of increase in ridge height at the site of the graft.

Methods

Eleven patients were chosen for sinus lift from among those who were referred to the radiology department for implant placement in the posterior region of the maxilla and whose bone height at the posterior of the maxilla was less than 4 mm on the cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) image. The sinus volume was measured after importing the CBCT file in DICOM format into Mimics software. After determining the sinus volume, the patients underwent sinus lift surgery, and the amount of material used during the surgery was measured. After the time required to repair the area, the CBCT image was taken again. Then, the changes in the volume of the maxillary sinus and the increase in the height of the maxillary ridge at the surgical site were calculated. Then, the second stage of the surgery was performed to place the implant at the implant site.

Results

For an average of 1.40 cm3 of material, the rate of increase in ridge height was 10.52 mm, and the average change in sinus volume was 1.19 cm3.

Conclusions

CBCT images and Mimics software have many applications in examining and predicting parameters before and after sinus lift surgery.

A New Simplified Autogenous Sinus Lift Technique

Oral maxillofacial rehabilitation of the atrophic maxilla with or without pneumatization of the maxillary sinuses routinely presents limited bone availability. This indicates the need for vertical and horizontal bone augmentation. The standard and most used technique is maxillary sinus augmentation using distinct techniques. These techniques may or may not rupture the sinus membrane. Rupture of the sinus membrane increases the risk of acute or chronic contamination of the graft, implant, and maxillary sinus. The surgical procedure for maxillary sinus autograft involves two stages: removal of the autograft and preparation of the bone site for the graft. A third stage is often added to place the osseointegrated implants. This is because it was not possible to do this at the same time as the graft surgery. A new bioactive kinetic screw (BKS) bone implant model is presented that simplifies and effectively performs autogenous grafting, sinus augmentation, and implant fixation in a single step. In the absence of a minimum vertical bone height of 4 mm in the region to be implanted, an additional surgical procedure is performed to harvest bone from the retro-molar trigone region of the mandible to provide additional bone. The feasibility and simplicity of the proposed technique were demonstrated in experimental studies in synthetic maxillary bone and sinus. A digital torque meter was used to measure MIT and MRT during implant insertion and removal. The amount of bone graft was determined by weighing the bone material collected by the new BKS implant. The technique proposed here demonstrated the benefits and limitations of the new BKS implant for maxillary sinus augmentation and installation of dental implants simultaneously.

Comparison of calcium sulfate and tricalcium phosphate in bone grafting after sinus lifting for dental implantation: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Maxillary sinus grafting is considered the most common surgical technique to secure a sufficient bone height for placing dental implants. It is carried out either by making a bony window in the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus (the external procedure) or through the alveolar entrance technique by using alveolar osteotomes (the internal procedure), depending on the quality and quantity of the remaining bone.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to compare radiologically the amount of bone gain (an increase in bone dimensions) and bone reduction (the loss of the graft volume) obtained by using tricalcium phosphate (TCP) and calcium sulfate (CS) grafts mixed with advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Nine patients (18 maxillary sinuses) participated in this study, all of whom had bilateral edentulism involving the premolar/molar areas and a bone height of 0.5-5 mm between the sinus floor and the alveolar ridge. Two biomaterials were used in the sinus augmentation procedures. Each patient underwent a bilateral maxillary sinus lift with the use of different bone graft materials - with CS mixed with A-PRF used on one side, and TCP mixed with A-PRF on the other side. The grafting site was selected randomly. Afterward, bone gain and bone reduction were evaluated at the grafting site by using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

RESULTS

The mean bone gain on the side treated with TCP mixed with A-PRF was 7.532 ±1.150 mm, and on the side treated with CS mixed with A-PRF side it was 7.961 ±2.781 mm. The comparison of bone gain and bone reduction between the 2 groups showed no statistically significant differences at a 6-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Using CS or TCP mixed with A-PRF was beneficial and safe in the two-stage maxillary sinus lifting procedure. A sufficient amount of bone was obtained for dental implantation.

Evaluation of immediate implant placement with osteotome sinus floor elevation without graft material

Background

Significant difficulties can be encountered when installing posterior maxillary implants. Osteotome sinus floor elevation (OSFE) enables insertion of implants with insufficient bone height at the posterior maxilla using a special instrument known as the "osteotom."

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the implant survival rates and radiographical bone gain data after OSFE with simultaneous implant placement performed without grafting material. Further, we have discussed whether the osteotom tapping distance to sinus floor affects the amount of new bone gain (NBG).

Materials and Methods

Forty dental implants were inserted in 36 patients (20 women and 16 men) aged between 24 and 80 years (mean = 55.7 years). Residual bone height and NBG were analyzed using a commercially available software program on panoramic films.

Results

The mean residual bone height at the intended implant sites was 5.4 mm ± 2.2 mm, ranging from 3.5 mm to 6.9 mm. The mean NBG was 1.5 mm ± 0.87 mm, ranging from 0.1 mm to 4 mm. At 64.4 months of follow-up, one implant had been lost in the osseointegration period. The remaining 39 implants were in function, with a survival rate of 97.5%. No significant difference was seen between the osteotome tapping distance to sinus floor and NBG at the implant apex (P = 0.395).

Conclusion

OSFE without using bone grafts with simultaneous implant installation is a safe and reliable method with successful long-term results for he rehabilitation of edentulous posterior maxillae.

Short Implants versus Standard Implants and Sinus Floor Elevation in Atrophic Posterior Maxilla: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials with ≥5 Years' Follow-Up

Background and objectives: The aim of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to assess the performance of short implants in comparison with standard implants and sinus floor elevation in atrophic posterior maxilla. Materials and methods: The protocol of the study was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42022375320). An electronic search on three databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) was performed to find randomized clinical trials (RCTs) with ≥5 years' follow-up, published until December 2022. Risk of bias (ROB) was calculated using Cochrane ROB. A meta-analysis was performed for primary (implant survival rate, ISR) and secondary outcomes (marginal bone loss, MBL; biological and prosthetic complications). Results: Of 1619 articles, 5 RCTs met the inclusion criteria. The ISR showed a risk ratio (RR) of 0.97 [0.94, 1.00] (CI 95%), p = 0.07. The MBL indicated a WMD of -0.29 [-0.49, -0.09] (CI 95%), p = 0.005. Biological complications showed a RR of 0.46 [0.23, 0.91] (CI 95%), p = 0.03. Prosthetic complications showed a RR of 1.51 [0.64, 3.55] (CI 95%), p = 0.34. Conclusions: The available evidence suggests that short implants might be used as an alternative to standard implants and sinus floor elevation. After 5 years, in terms of ISR, standard implants and sinus floor elevation showed a higher survival rate comparted to short implants, although statistical significance was not achieved. Future RCTs with long-term follow-up are needed to draw a clear conclusion on the advantages of one method over another.

Evaluation of Sinus Membrane Perforation in Osteotome Sinus Floor Elevation With and Without Grafting

The purpose of this study was to evaluate, using cone-beam computerized tomography (CBCT), the rate of sinus membrane perforation in osteotome sinus floor elevation (OSFE) performed with and without a graft material. Thirty patients with 52 OSFE sites were included in the study. Patients were divided into the control group (OSFE performed without graft material) and test groups (OSFE performed with autograft or xenograft). The autograft was harvested from the maxillary tuberosity using bone forceps. The xenograft was a commercial product originating from bovine bone. Graft volume was measured using the water displacement method. CBCT was performed at the initial examination and immediately after surgery to measure the residual bone height and to evaluate the endo-sinus bone gain and membrane perforation. The rate of sinus membrane perforation was 15.4%. Of the 52 OSFE procedures, 26.9% were performed without grafting and 34.6% and 38.5% were performed with autografts and xenografts, respectively. Membrane perforation was significantly higher in the autograft group (P = .033). The median volume of graft materials was 0.3 mL. The difference in graft volume between the autograft and xenograft was not statistically significant (P = .768). The mean endo-sinus bone gain was 6.55 mm in patients without membrane perforation and 8.71 mm in patients with membrane perforation; this difference was statistically significant (P = .035). The volume and physical properties of graft materials are important factors in membrane perforation. Further clinical studies with larger and standardized samples are needed to confirm the effect of graft materials on sinus membrane perforation in OSFE.

Introduction of Accurate Measurement of the Alveolar Bone Height in Bone Grafting Area after Sinus Lift

BACKGROUND

Sinus lift via the alveolar crest approach has been proven to solve inadequate alveolar bone height perfectly in the posterior region of the maxilla. Nevertheless, the surgical area cannot be directly observed, imaging methods are necessary to reveal whether the surgery has achieved the expected results. Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) images are usually taken before surgery and at the completion of final pre-repair osseointegration and evaluate the effect of maxillary sinus lift by measuring the alveolar bone height in the bone graft area. However, there is no uniform and recognized method to accurately measure the alveolar bone height in the bone grafting area before and after maxillary sinus lift. Therefore, the authors propose a simple, accurate, and reproducible method for the measurement of alveolar bone height in maxillary sinus lift on CBCT, which will be an innovation.

METHODS

30 implant cases (30 patients) were included in this study. The authors create a uniformed measurement surface in the CBCT axial interface to ensure consistency at the completion of final prerepair osseointegration and before surgery. Then changes in alveolar bone height in the bone grafting area before and after sinus lift were measured on CBCT coronal and arch planes. Finally, for the purpose of verification of repeatability, three dentists from our department were randomly selected to measure and record the above CBCT data at three different time points.

RESULTS

The data showed that in the CBCT measurements of the three dentists, neither the coronal plane nor the arch plane was statistically significant. (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This measurement method is simple, accurate and repeatable. It can be applied to measure alveolar bone height in the bone grafting area before and after maxillary sinus lift.

Use of hyaluronic acid for regeneration of maxillofacial bones

Hyaluronic acid (HA) has been widely used in medicine and is currently of particular interest to maxillofacial surgeons. Several applications have been introduced, including those in which HA is used as a scaffold for bone regeneration, either alone or in combination with other grafting materials, to enhance bone growth. This review aims to analyze the available literature on the use of HA for maxillofacial bone regenerative procedures including socket preservation, sinus augmentation, and ridge augmentation. Medline and PubMed databases were searched for relevant reports published between January 2000 and April 2021. Nine publications describing the use of HA to augment bone volume were identified. Although further studies are needed, these findings are encouraging as they suggest that HA could be used effectively used, in combination with graft materials, in maxillofacial bone regenerative procedures. HA facilitates manipulation of bone grafts, improves handling characteristics and promotes osteoblast activity that stimulates bone regeneration and repair.

Bone Graft Osseous Changes After Maxillary Sinus Floor Augmentation: A Systematic Review

This systematic review aimed to evaluate computed tomographic scans for volumetric bone gain following lateral sinus floor augmentation of the atrophic posterior maxilla after the use of various bone-grafting materials using. The databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and SCOPUS were used for a comprehensive search for all potentially eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs), without language restrictions, from the beginning of each database until June 2021. The predictor variables for this review were autogenous bone (AB), allografts (AG), xenografts (XG), alloplastic bone (AP), which were assessed individually, and in combination with the inclusion of growth factors with XGs. The outcome variable was the graft volume on cone beam computed tomographic (CBCT) scans. Seven RCTs with a short-term observation period were included. Topographical analyses of all graft materials identified a volumetric reduction at 6 months post-grafting, compared to values immediately after graft placement. The volumetric reduction occurred regardless of the type of bone-grafting material. The largest volumetric gain over baseline, pre-graft values, was found with the AG+XG group. Autografts, the present gold standard bone-graft, showed a high resorption rate and inferior volumetric increase when compared to alternative grafting combinations. AG and XG also showed a significant difference with less volumetric gain than AP and their combinations. No difference was detected between AP and AG+AP. However, there was significantly less volumetric gain for AP alone compared AG+XG and XG-growth factors combinations. As a result, these findings suggest significant advantages to new bone formation using grafting materials in combination. To achieve a better understanding of topographical variables related to various grafting materials, more clinically focused RCTs, with sufficient statistical power to control for confounding factors, are needed.

Sinus Lift Associated with Leucocyte-Platelet-Rich Fibrin (Second Generation) for Bone Gain: A Systematic Review

The purpose of this systematic review was to analyze sinus lifting procedures and to compare the efficiency of this treatment associated with the second generation of platelet-rich fibrin related to its effects on bone gain and to clarify the regenerative efficacy in sinus lift procedure, whether alone or as a coadjutant to other bone graft materials. The PICOT question was, “In clinical studies with patients needing a maxillary sinus lift (P), does the use of PRF either alone (I) or in conjunction with other biomaterials (C) improve the clinical outcome associated with bone gain and density (O), with at least three months of follow-up (T)?” An electronic search was conducted in the MEDLINE (PubMed), Science Direct, and Scopus databases through a search strategy. A total of 443 articles were obtained from the electronic database search. Sixteen articles met all criteria and were included in this review. Within the limitation of this study and interpreting the results carefully, it was suggested that a higher risk for implant failure after a sinus elevation might be seen in patients with residual bone ≤4 mm, and PRF application was effective, suggesting reducing the time needed for new bone formation.

Confirmation of Calcium Phosphate Cement Biodegradation after Jawbone Augmentation around Dental Implants Using Three-Dimensional Visualization and Segmentation Software

The use of autologous bone graft for oral rehabilitation of bone atrophy is considered the gold standard. However, the available grafts do not allow a fast loading of dental implants, as they require a long healing time before full functionality. Innovative bioactive materials provide an easy-to-use solution to this problem. The current study shows the feasibility of calcium phosphate cement paste (Paste-CPC) in the sinus. Long implants were placed simultaneously with the cement paste, and provisional prosthetics were also mounted in the same sessions. Final prosthetics and the full loading took place within the same week. Furthermore, the study shows for the first time the possibility to monitor not only healing progression using Cone Beam Computer tomography (CBCT) but also material retention, over two years, on a case study example. The segmented images showed a 30% reduction of the cement size and an increased mineralized tissue in the sinus. Mechanical testing was performed qualitatively using reverse torque after insertion and cement solidification to indicate clinical feasibility. Both functional and esthetic satisfaction remain unchanged after one year. This flowable paste encourages the augmentation procedure with less invasive measure through socket of removed implants. However, this limitation can be addressed in future studies.

Radiographic and Histomorphometric Evaluation of Biomaterials Used for Lateral Sinus Augmentation: A Systematic Review on the Effect of Residual Bone Height and Vertical Graft Size on New Bone Formation and Graft Shrinkage

The aim of the present systematic review was to investigate the effect of residual bone height (RBH) and vertical bone gain on new bone formation (NBF) and graft shrinkage after lateral sinus lifts using different biomaterials.

METHODS

An electronic search was conducted on three databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published until January 2021 with at least one follow-up at 6 months and at least five patients treated, comparing biomaterials used for maxillary sinus augmentation with a lateral approach. Graft volumetric changes, RBH, vertical bone gain, implant failure, and post-operative complications were evaluated. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool.

RESULTS

We used 4010 identified studies, of which 21 were RCTs. Overall, 412 patients and 533 sinuses were evaluated. Only three publications had an overall low risk of bias. After 6 months, xenograft (XG) showed the least volume reduction (7.30 ± 15.49%), while autogenous graft (AU) was the most reabsorbed (41.71 ± 12.63%). NBF appeared to not be directly correlated with RBH; on the contrary, the overall linear regression analysis showed that NBF significantly decreased by 1.6% for each mm of postoperative vertical graft gain. This finding suggests that the greater the augmentation, the lower the NBF. A similar tendency, with a regression coefficient even higher than the overall one, was also observed with alloplast (AP) and XG.

CONCLUSIONS

The present results suggested that NBF was essentially independent of preoperative bone height. On the contrary, the smaller the volume was of the graft placed, the higher the amount of new bone formed, and the smaller the graft shrinkage was. Minimizing the augmentation volume might be beneficial to graft healing and stability especially when using AP and XG.

A Replicable and Reproducible Digital Method for Quantifying Maxillary Sinus Airway Changes after Sinus Lifts Using the Lateral Window Approach Technique-A Retrospective Study

In the present retrospective study, we aimed to assess the replicability and reproducibility of a novel digital measurement technique for analyzing the volumes of the left and right maxillary sinuses and the nasal and maxillary sinus airway complex after a sinus lift procedure using the lateral window approach, to provide an accurate measurement technique for easily applying in clinical practice and to allow pre-operative assessment of maxillary sinus lift surgery, avoiding complications and making surgery more predictable. Material and Methods: Thirty patients with partially edentulous posterior maxilla were selected and submitted to bilateral sinus lift using the lateral window approach technique, with grafting materials selected and submitted to cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, both pre- and postoperatively. Then, datasets were uploaded to therapeutic digital planning software to measure the volume of the right and left maxillary sinuses and the nasal and maxillary sinus airway complex. Gage R&R statistical analysis was performed to assess the replicability and reproducibility of the digital measurement technique. Results: The variability attributable to the novel digital measurement technique was 3.4% for replicability and 3.4% for reproducibility of the total variability of the samples. Conclusion: The novel digital method proposed is a replicable and reproducible technique for analyzing the volume of the right and left maxillary sinuses and the nasal and maxillary sinus airway complex after a sinus lift using the lateral window approach technique, allowing an accurate pre-operative assessment of maxillary sinus lift surgery, avoiding complications and making surgery more predictable.

Sinus Lift and Implant Insertion on 3D-Printed Polymeric Maxillary Models: Ex Vivo Training for In Vivo Surgical Procedures

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study is to demonstrate the increased efficiency achieved by dental practitioners when carrying out an ex vivo training process on 3D-printed maxillaries before performing in vivo surgery. Materials and Methods: This developed ex vivo procedure comprises the following phases: (i) scanning the area of interest for surgery; (ii) obtaining a 3D virtual model of this area using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT); (iii) obtaining a 3D-printed model (based on the virtual one), on which (iv) the dental practitioner simulates/rehearses ex vivo (most of) the surgery protocol; (v) assess with a new CBCT the 3D model after simulation. The technical steps of sinus augmentation and implant insertion could be performed on the corresponding 3D-printed hemi-maxillaries prior to the real in vivo surgery. Two study groups were considered, with forty patients divided as follows: Group 1 comprises twenty patients on which the developed simulation and rehearsal procedure was applied; Group 2 is a control one which comprises twenty patients on which similar surgery was performed without this procedure (considered in order to compare operative times without and with rehearsals). Results: Following the ex vivo training/rehearsal, an optimal surgery protocol was developed for each considered case. The results of the surgery on patients were compared with the results obtained after rehearsals on 3D-printed models. The performed quantitative assessment proved that, using the proposed training procedure, the results of the in vivo surgery are not significantly different (p = 0.089) with regard to the ex vivo simulation for both the mezio-distal position of the implant and the distance from the ridge margin to sinus window. On the contrary, the operative time of Group 1 was reduced significantly (p = 0.001), with an average of 20% with regard to in vivo procedures performed without rehearsals (on the control Group 2). Conclusions: The study demonstrated that the use of 3D-printed models can be beneficial to dental surgeon practitioners, as well as to students who must be trained before performing clinical treatments.

Histomorphometric Evaluation of Bone-Guided Regeneration in Maxillary Sinus Floor Augmentation Using Nano-Hydroxyapatite/Beta-Tricalcium Phosphate Composite Biomaterial: A Case Report

Background

The development of techniques in biomaterials design and production added to advanced surgical procedures which enabled better and more predictable clinical outcomes. Maxillary sinus floor augmentation (MSFA) is among the more studied bone-guided regeneration procedure in the literature. The MSFA could be considered the gold standard procedure for bone-guided regeneration as it provides suitable functional and aesthetic solutions to alveolar ridge atrophy due to tooth loss.

Purpose

This study aimed to conduct a detailed histomorphometric evaluation of collagen production in SFAs bone-guided regeneration, using nano-hydroxyapatite/ß-tricalcium phosphate (nano-HA/ß-TCP) composite.

Patients and Methods

A 52-year-old female had the left upper second premolar condemned due to periodontal disease, then a tooth implant replacement was planned. Due to maxillary sinus pneumatization, the MSFA had to be done before implant placement. Nano-HA/ß-TCP composite (2g) was used in the MSFA procedure. After nine months of the healing process, during the Cone Morse implant installation process, bone samples were collected for histologic analysis (sirius red, hematoxylin/eosin, polarized microscopy). Six months after implant installation, a ceramic crown was installed according to the patient’s request.

Results

Proper masticatory function and aesthetics were re-established. The histomorphometric evaluation indicated that nano-HA/ß-TCP composite did not show any area devoid of cellular activity in sirius red or hematoxylin/eosin staining and the percentage (%) of new bone collagen fibers was achieved using polarization technique evaluation.

Conclusion

According to these results, nano-HA/ß-TCP composite presented clinical and histomorphometric properties suit to be used as bone-guided regeneration biomaterial in MSFA. Furthermore, nano-HA/β-TCP composite provided a favorable nano-environment to bone cells, enhancing bone matrix production.

Long-Term Clinical Study of Implants Placed in Maxillary Sinus Floor Augmentation Using Beta-Tricalcium Phosphate

Introduction. The aim of this study was to show the long-term clinical outcomes of implants placed in maxillary sinus floor augmentation (MFSA) using beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP). Patients and methods. Maxillary patients were diagnosed for MFSA and used beta- β-TCP. After the lateral sinus surgery, implants were loaded at 6 months with restorations. The clinical follow-up was at 10 years. Results. One hundred and one patients (58 females and 43 males) were treated with MFSA. Twenty-nine patients (28.7%) had a history of periodontitis. Thirty-three patients (32.7%) were smokers. One hundred and twenty-one MFSA, 81 unilateral and 20 bilateral sites, with 234 implants were performed. The average vertical bone height available was 4.92 ± 1.83 mm. The average vertical bone gain obtained was 6.95 ± 2.19 mm following MFSA. The implant cumulative survival rate was 97.2%. Three implants (1.3%) were lost during the healing period. Six implants (2.6%) were lost by peri-implantitis. One hundred and fifteen restorations were placed in the patients. Mean marginal bone loss was 1.93 mm ± 1.03 mm. Six patients (27.3%) showed technical complications. Thirty-six implants (15.3%) in 14 patients (13.9%) were associated with peri-implantitis. Conclusions. This study indicates that treatment with implant-supported restoration by MFSA using β-TCP constitutes a successful implant approach.

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Liquid Platelet-Rich Fibrin and Deproteinized Bovine Bone Mineral Mixture on Newly Formed Bone in Maxillary Sinus Augmentation: A Split-Mouth, Histomorphometric Study

Objective

We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the liquid PRF-DBBM mixture on new bone formation in maxillary sinus augmentation.

Material and Methods

Seven patients requiring two-stage bilateral maxillary sinus augmentation were included in the study. The patients were selected according to the criteria of having an alveolar bone height of at least 2 mm in the atrophic region. The elevated sinus cavities were randomly grafted with DBBM + liquid PRF (test) or DBBM alone (control) in a split-mouth design. Bone samples were collected during implant surgery with a trephine bur for histomorphometric evaluation after 4 months.

Results

In the control group, the newly formed bone was 39.49%, the mature bone was 15.66%, the residual graft was 15.62%, and the fibrous tissue ratio 28.59%, while in the test group, the newly formed bone (NFB) was 45.95%, the mature bone was 14.40%, the residual graft was 10.32%, and the fibrous tissue was 29.31%. No statistically significant difference was found between the groups in terms of the parameters studied (p > 0.05). The mean osteocalcin score in the control group was 2.70 ± 0.39, while it was 2.81 ± 0.36 in the test group. There was no statistically significant difference between the averages of osteocalcin scores of the groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The results of our study showed that DBBM is a reliable graft material for maxillary sinus augmentation even in the early period. Combining of DBBM with liquid-PRF contributed to new bone formation over a four-month period, but this contribution was not statistically significant.

Comparative assessment of the primary stability of Straumann® BLX implant design using an in-vitro sinus lift-simultaneous implant insertion model

Straumann ®  BLX is a novel implant system, which has been proclaimed to provide an ideal primary stability in all types of bone. In the current study, the primary stability of Straumann ®  BLX implant systems with Straumann ®  tapered effect (TE) implants have been comparatively assessed in bovine ribs by using a simultaneous sinus elevation and implant insertion model.  In the study group, BLX (4.0 x 12 mm), TE (4.1 x 12 mm), BLX (4,5 x 12 mm) and TE (4.8 x 12 mm) were placed in each bony window, which resembles sinus maxillaris. As a control, BLX and TE implants with same sizes were inserted into the proximal diaphysis of the bovine ribs. A total of 40 implant insertions were performed. The stability was measured with resonance frequence analysis. In the study group, TE implants of 4.8 mm showed significantly higher values compared to 4.5 mm BLX implants (p=0.116). However, BLX implants of 4.0 mm in the control group showed higher stability compared to TE with 4.0 mm diameter. (p=0.014).  The primary stability of BLX implants in the control group was significantly higher compared to the experimental group in both widths (p=0.018 for BLX 4.0 and p=0.002 for BLX 4.5 respectively). The use of TE design with wide diameter in simultaneous implant placement with sinus lift could present higher ISQ values and might be more appropriate option for implant recipient sites with poor bone volume and quality. However, the advantage of BLX design in standard implant insertion protocols could be precious.

Guided sinus lift: virtual planning of surgical templates for lateral access

The sinus lift with lateral approach is a regenerative technique nowadays considered predictable to increase the height of bone in the atrophic posterior maxilla. Knowledge of sinus anatomy and evaluation of risk factors are the basis of regenerative and rehabilitative surgical success. The positioning and size of the lateral antrostomy represent critical factors in the execution of regenerative surgery, due to the difficulty in transferring radiological information to the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus even for skilled surgeons. The knowhow of guided implant surgery in recent years is also finding use in planning and precisely delineating the lateral access to the maxillary sinus using CBCT imaging and dimensional reconstruction software, through the realization of surgical guides with 3D printing, as shown in the presented case.

Delayed post-extraction implants placed using a modified Summers technique: Preliminary results of a single cohort study

The aim of this retrospective case series was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of the patients that underwent implant surgery with a modification of the sinus lift summers protocol. Forty healthy patients in need for oral rehabilitation with dental implants were included in this study. Inclusion criterion was the need for extraction of one compromised tooth due to persistent abscess/ periodontitis/cyst in the atrophic posterior maxilla region. The treatment consisted of two stage surgery for all patients. In the first stage, after tooth extraction, the sockets were preserved with allogenic bone graft and equine collagen membrane. After 4-5 months, 40 implants with a sandblasted surface, were inserted with osseodensification technique and a modification of the Summers sinus lift protocol for fracturing the sinus floor. The implant survival rate was the primary outcome. Intra- and postoperative complications were additional criteria for success. The mean follow-up from implant surgery was 28.0±7.3 (standard deviation) months (range 17.8-43.4 months). One implant was lost before the delivery of the prosthesis. The overall implant survival rate was 97.5%. The overall mean peri-implant marginal bone level change after 6 and 12 months of function was, respectively, 0.26±0.24 mm (95% CI: 0.19, 0.34 mm) and 0.71±0.36 mm (95% CI: 0.60, 0.82 mm). Marginal bone loss was statistically significant at both time frames respect to implant placement, and also the difference between 6 and 12 months was significant (p<0.001 in both cases). No biological nor mechanical complications were recorded throughout the observation period. As a conclusion, the technique presented in this cohort study can be an effective and safe alternative to standard maxillary sinus floor augmentation procedures and immediate implant insertion protocol, especially in cases of periodontitis and infected sites, which can represent a high risk for implant failure in patients with atrophic posterior maxilla.

Management of large perforations of the sinus mucosa with PRGF-Endoret® platelet concentrate

The aim of the present study is to describe a new technique through which it is possible to complete the maxillary sinus lift procedure even in case of severe damage or complete removal of the sinus mucosa using the PRGF-Endoret® platelet concentrate. Eighteen patients (ratio F:M=4:5; average age: 58.2 years; DS: 8.85 years) with severe perforation (more than 10 millimetres of diameter) of the sinus mucosa during the maxillary sinus lift procedure were selected. Normally the procedure is interrupted due to impossible stabilization of the graft material inside the subantral cavity. On the contrary, our protocol foreseen the sealing of the perforation using the PRGF autologous gel membranes or the creation of a new sinus pseudomembrane through which the graft material was covered. The PRGF-Endoret were obtained according to the protocol developed by BTI (Biotechnology Institute - Vitoria, Spain). In 14 cases out of 18 implant fixtures were concurrently inserted while in 4 cases the fixture insertion was postponed after 6 months: 37 fixtures were inserted (27 at the same time and 10 after 6 months). 2 months after surgery the CBCT showed a correct pneumatization of the maxillary sinus in 16 patients out of 18 (89% of cases), while after 12 months the radiological normalization of the maxillary sinus was present in 17 patients out of 18, bringing the healing rate to 94% of cases. Regarding implant healing, 2 out of 37 implants inserted were lost in the first month after the surgical phase, whereas 12 months after prosthesis application the other 35 implants were perfectly osteointegrated with a healing rate equal to 94.6% of the fixtures. 36 months after the surgery all the fixtures were osteointegrated (35 of 37 implants with a percentage of 94.6% of success). We may conclude that the use of PRGF allowed to complete the sinus lift even in case of severe perforation of the sinus mucosa or its total removal thanks to its capability to stabilize the graft, its antibacterial and antifungal activity and its anabolic effect and favouring bone regeneration.

Minimally Invasive Transcrestal Sinus Floor Elevation Procedure in Severely Atrophic Ridge: A Case Report

Typically, the greater the atrophy of the process, the more extensive and invasive the sinus floor elevation procedure is. This case of a 39-year-old man demonstrates a minimally invasive hydrostatic sinus lift from 1.7-mm height process in the site of lost tooth No. 16. Using a small flap, safe drills for a crestal approach diameter of 2.8 mm, 2 mL of saline solution under pressure of a syringe plunger, and 1 g of particulated bovine xenograft, a 14-mm height and 12-mm width sinus floor elevation was obtained. The implant was placed with a torque of 30 Ncm, and a healing cap was attached. Despite the very difficult conditions, the presented method not only resulted in a very good therapeutic effect but also reduced the number of procedures and time necessary for complete rehabilitation of the patient. The total treatment time to the final crown delivery was 6 months.

PRF versus xenograft in sinus augmentation in case of HA-coating implant placement: A 36-month retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Sinus lift with a simultaneous implant placement in the residual maxilla is a common technique used worldwide. Nevertheless, choosing an ideal grafting material remains an object of dispute. The use of an autologous blood-derived graft, known as platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), has not yet been recognized to be as good as xenografts and alloplastic materials. However, initial results have been promising.

OBJECTIVES

To conduct a clinical and radiological comparison of implantation with a simultaneous sinus lift using xenograft or PRF clots.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty sinus lifts with simultaneous implantation were conducted using a lateral window approach and the tent pole technique, with xenograft (group 1 (G1)) or PRF (group 2 (G2)) as a filling material. To be included in the study, patients must have had an alveolar ridge height of 4-5 mm, no signs of inflammatory processes, good oral hygiene, and no other grafting procedures performed in region of implant insertion. In each case, the measurements taken were probing pocket depth (PPD), height of keratinized tissue (HKT), clinical attachment level (CAL), recession depth/width (RD/RW), and, on panoramic X-rays, marginal bone loss (MBL), grafted sinus high (GSH), and bone gain (BG). Preand post-operative treatment was applied to reduce the chance of infection.

RESULTS

During the study, 30 implants (hydroxyapatite-coated implants manufactured by SGS - 10 mm in length and 4.2 mm in diameter) were placed. The survival rate of implants in both groups was 100% with no implant mobility, pain, paresthesia, or inflammatory processes in the direct vicinity of the implants observed, except in 1 patient. After 36 months of follow-up, the radiological assessments for G1 were: GSH 4.5 mm, MBL 0.46 mm and BG 4.53 mm; and for G2: 3.4 mm, 0.6 mm and 3.4 mm, respectively. Results of the clinical measurements were for G1: HKT after 36 months (HKT36) 2.46 mm, CAL 0.47 mm and PPD 2 mm; and for G2: HKT36 3.13 mm, CAL 0.6 mm and PPD 2.07 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

After 3 years of follow-up, the results of sinus lifting solely using PRF with simultaneous implantation were promising, especially in terms of soft tissue management. Therefore, PRF can be regarded as an alternative to previously used materials.

Short (6 mm) and Regular Dental Implants in the Posterior Maxilla-7-Years Follow-up Study

Short 6 mm dental implants are considered as an alternative to the maxillary sinus elevation and bone augmentation procedure where there is a reduced alveolar ridge height. The aim of this study was to compare the implant survival rate between short dental implants (6 mm) and regular length implants (11-13 mm) when placed in combination with bone grafting and loaded with a single non splinted crown, seven years after placing the implant. It was conducted as a controlled clinical study of 30 patients with partial edentulism in the posterior maxilla. The protocol included radiological and clinical evaluation of the C/I ratio (length of the superstructure divided by the length of the implant crestal part), marginal bone level (MBL), ultrasonography measurement of soft tissue surrounding implant (STT), patient-reported outcomes, and biological and technical complications. A total number of 28 implants (93%) remained integrated during follow-up period. MBL of 0.50 and 0.52 mm was observed for short implants and regular implants, respectively. MBL was checked for correlation with STT, and a negative correlation was found between MBL: STT. Our study has demonstrated a significantly lower implant survival rate for short implants compared to regular implants (87% compared to 100%). Despite the loss of several implants, good clinical results were achieved in the remaining implants in both groups. It is, therefore, worth considering short implants as an alternative to regular implants with a sinus lift surgery.

Implant Placement Following Crestal Sinus Lift with Sequential Drills and Osteotomes: Five Years after Final Loading Results from a Retrospective Study

The aim of this retrospective study was to clinically evaluate the five-year outcomes of implants placed following a combined approach to the sinus, consisting of sequential drills and osteotomes. Medical records of patients with implants placed in combination with crestal sinus lift using sequential drills and osteotomes, with a residual alveolar bone crest between 4 to 8 mm, and a follow-up of at least five years after final loading, were evaluated. Outcomes were implant and prosthetic survival and success rates, any complication, and marginal bone loss. Data from 96 patients (53 women and 43 men; mean age 54.7 years; range 23-79 years) were collected. A total of 105 single implants were analyzed. After five years of function, two implants were lost and two prostheses failed. No major biological or prosthetic complications occurred. At the five-year examination, the marginal bone loss was 1.24 ± 0.28 mm. Within the limitations of this retrospective study it can be concluded that implants placed following a combined approach to the sinus consisting of sequential drills and osteotomes seem to be a viable option for the treatment of posterior atrophic edentulous maxilla.

Graftless crestal hydraulic sinus lift with simultaneous implant insertion

Background

The posterior maxilla is always a challenge for dental implant restoration. The presence of maxillary sinus and reduced subantral bone height are the limitations for implant insertion. The need of the hour is to make the surgical procedures simple, minimally invasive, andpredictable. Can we perform the sinus lift and simultaneous implant insertion by minimally invasive,simple, cost-effective, and less time-consuming technique? With this in consideration, the author carriedout this study for graftless crestal hydraulic sinus lift (CHSL) and simultaneous implant insertion in partially edentulous posterior maxilla for 26 implants. The aim is to evaluate the clinical and radiological success of graftless CHSL with simultaneous implant insertion.

Material and Method

The sample size was 17 patients and 26 implants were inserted. The clinical as well as radiological follow-up was done for 1 year. The outcome variables were the gain in bone height and implant survival.

Result

Mean Bone height Gain is 5.6 mm; Mean torque used 32 nm, Mean age of the patient was 53 years. The literature shows a success of graftless lateral and osteotome-mediated sinus lift. The concept is the blood filling the gap around the implant in tented sinus lining can eventually result in the ossification to form bone. Until now, no study has demonstrated the bone formation in the peri-implant area of CHSL with simultaneous implant insertion. CHSL, a minimally invasive sinus lift surgery is very encouraging, easy to master, and predictive. The simultaneous implant insertion acts to retain the elevated sinus lining by tenting. It also reduces treatment time. After a sinus lifting procedure, the compartment around the implants under the sinus mucosal lining in the sinus floor is filled with a blood clot from surrounding bleeding. Blood clot can be considered autologous osteogenic graft material, to which osteoprogenitors can migrate, differentiate, and regenerate bone.

Conclusion

The graftless CHSL is predictable and safe for the sinus lift. The gain of up to 5-6 mm of subantral bone is possible.

Palatal root surgery of a maxillary molar using a piezosurgery transantral approach with simultaneous sinus lift grafting: a case report

AIM

To report a case involving transantral palatal root piezoelectric surgery followed by a sinus floor augmentation procedure with the purpose of minimizing and managing complications associated with sinus lining perforations and optimizing bone regeneration at the site of the surgical defect.

SUMMARY

An asymptomatic 28-year-old male patient with the diagnosis of chronic apical periodontitis on a previously root filled right maxillary first molar (FDI tooth 16) and second premolar (No. 15) was managed by transantral apical surgery. Cone-beam computerized tomography (CBCT) revealed the position of the palatal root of the first molar within the maxillary sinus. The case highlights the management of the palatal root and the handling of a perforation of the Schneiderian membrane through a combination of piezosurgery and a sinus lift grafting procedure involving a second-generation of platelet concentrates. No postoperative complications were observed. Sinus bone augmentation after a 26-month recall period was confirmed by CBCT in the clinically asymptomatic teeth.

KEY LEARNING POINTS

The selective bone tissue cutting and enhanced visibility obtained by piezoelectric surgery in comparison with current rotary techniques make this technology the preferred tool for apical surgery when the mucosal lining of the maxillary sinus could be compromised. The wound healing and physical properties of the platelet-rich fibrin membranes in combination with an allograft material can be considered as sinus bone graft options when a transantral approach is performed on a palatal root of a maxillary molar. A preoperative tomographic examination is essential for apical surgery using a transantral approach with sinus bone augmentation, because of the information obtained from the axial and coronal views on the CBCT scan.

Selective Retreatment and Sinus Lift: An Alternative Approach to Surgically Manage the Palatal Roots of Maxillary Molars

Endodontic microsurgery on the palatal root of maxillary molars presents a clinical challenge because of the root position and approximation from the maxillary sinus floor. Attempting a buccal or a palatal approach to address the root is associated with limited accessibility and visibility as well as the risk of injury to the maxillary sinus membrane and/or the greater palatine nerves and vessels. If all the maxillary molar roots require surgical intervention, two flaps may even be needed, which can make the procedure technically more difficult and lengthier. This case report presents 2 clinical cases in which apicoectomy was needed on the palatal roots of maxillary molars. The treatment includes selective nonsurgical retreatment of the palatal root and obturation using a root repair material followed by a surgical intervention from a buccal approach to treat the buccal roots, sinus lift using piezosurgery, and root resection of the palatal root. The approach was successful in both cases without any untoward events. We monitored the radiographic changes using cone-beam computed tomographic imaging immediately after the surgery and at multiple follow-up appointments. The cone-beam computed tomographic images revealed healing of the periapical disease around all the roots up to 14 and 24 months and apical repositioning of the maxillary sinus floor.

Direct maxillary sinus floor augmentation and simultaneous implant placement for rehabilitation of the severely resorbed posterior maxilla: A prospective clinical study

Aims and Objectives

The aim of this prospective clinical study was to evaluate the success of one-stage direct (lateral) sinus lift procedure in severely atrophic posterior maxilla.

Materials and Methods

One-stage direct (lateral) sinus lift procedure was carried out at 15 sites in 13 patients. All patients included in the study presented with partially edentulous posterior maxilla with one or more missing teeth and residual bone height less than 5 mm. Three months after surgery, patients were evaluated to access increase in residual bone height, density of new bone formed and implant stability. Patients were also evaluated after 3 months of prosthetic placement for the success of implant-supported prosthesis.

Results

At 3 months post-operatively, increase in residual bone height was 8.31 ± 1.63 mm and the mean density of the newly formed bone around the implants was 417 ± 66.61 HU. All implants were stable and successfully osseointegrated, except one implant that was lost. The success rate of implant stability was 96.3% during the study period.

Conclusion

Single-stage direct (lateral) maxillary sinus floor augmentation is a good treatment option with predictable outcome for patients with deficient alveolar bone in posterior maxilla.

Comparative evaluation of direct sinus lift with bone graft and zygoma implant for atrophic maxilla

Introduction

Implant rehabilitation of atrophic maxilla is challenging. The aim of this manuscript is to compare the clinical outcome of rehabilitation of atrophic maxilla (long span) by zygomatic implants (ZI) versus conventional sinus lift with augmentation procedures dental implants (SLAP-DI).

Materials and Methods

A retrospective record analysis of a cohort of 25 patients fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria, over a period of 6 years were performed. The patients had been either treated with ZI or SLAP-DI. The outcome measures were: prosthesis, implant and augmentation failures, any complications, patients' number of days with total or partial impaired activity, time to function and number of dental visits, assessed by independent assessors from records. The data was analyzed using SPSS with P ≤ 0.05.

Results

There were 16 (64%) men and 11 (44%) had ZI while 14 (56%) underwent SLAP-DI. There were no prosthesis or implant failures in this cohort. Between ZI and SLAP-DI, there was no gender difference (P = 0.648), border line significance in minor complication (P = 0.075), with less complication encountered in SLAP-DI than the ZI. None of the cases had major complications that required hospitalization or severe medical therapy. Of the 14 cases that underwent SLAP, 11 (78.6%) had no augmentation failure (resorption <10%). ZI had older age (P = 0.000), with greater number of teeth missing (P = 0.002), with lesser time for functional loading (P = 0.000), required less number of visit to dentist (P = 0.000), and lesser bone loss at insertion site (P = 0.005).

Discussion & Conclusion

The results are discussed in light of previous pertinent literature. This short term (~ 1 year follow-up) suggest that SLAP-DI and ZI have certain similar features. There is no statistical difference in outcome barring the time needed to functional loading (1.3 days vs. 444.3 days). Relatively more complications were reported for ZI, but had no statistical significance. Long-term and multi-center data are needed to confirm the results.

Wire loop sinus membrane elevator: a novel instrument for lateral window sinus lift

This technical note introduces a novel instrument to facilitate lateral window sinus membrane elevation. The fabrication and use of the instrument are reported. The features of this instrument include easy control, good tactile sensation, flexibility in adjusting the instrument, and simple to replicate. Since its introduction, it has been the preferred instrument of our implant surgical trainees. Most importantly, it has proved to be an invaluable teaching tool, as it has helped not only to boost trainee confidence in the procedure, but also in their use of other sinus elevation instruments.

Is balloon-assisted maxillary sinus floor augmentation before dental implant safe and promising? A systematic review and meta-analysis

We aimed to assess the complications of minimally invasive balloon-assisted maxillary sinus floor augmentation, compared with the conventional sinus floor augmentation procedures done before placing a dental implant. A structured question was formulated and an electronic search was conducted in three databases (MEDLINE via PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus). A separate search of gray literature and a hand search for missing articles were also conducted. Apart from animal studies, in-vitro studies, and case reports, all other types of studies where maxillary sinus floor augmentation was done using a balloon were considered for review. Our review was registered in International Prospective Registration of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) under number CRD42018086770. Our search produced 73 articles. However, only eight articles were found eligible to be included in our review (seven case series and one case-control study). Quality check was done using Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS). Results suggest that balloon-assisted augmentation is associated with low rates of membrane tears (9 out of 272 sinus augmentation attempts), and high follow-up bone gain levels (mean 212.91%, 95% confidence interval 158.07%-267.75%, I2 = 97.62%). Balloon-assisted augmentation seems to be safe. More clinical trials are needed to assess the advantages and disadvantages of balloon-assisted maxillary sinus floor augmentation compared with other procedures.

Histomorphometric evaluation of bovine bone and equine bone matrix in maxillary sinus floor augmentation: a systematic review

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of bovine and equine bone substitute materials used in sinus augmentation techniques. The research protocol was carried out using the PubMed database, including articles from October 2019 until February 2020 and those in English only. The search on PubMed (MED-LINE) was carried out with the following keywords: sinus augmentation OR sinus lift AND bovine bone graft OR equine bone matrix. The articles identified included randomised clinical trials, cross-sectional studies and case series. Outcomes were the percentage of newly formed bone, remaining graft particles and soft tissue in a follow-up at least of 5 months. The use of bovine bone graft (ABB) as a graft material in maxillary sinus elevation was evaluated in 9 studies. According to the quality assessment, 4 of the 9 studies were analysed and an arithmetic mean was performed showing the following results: newly formed bone (NFB 22.74%), residual grafts (RG 29.36%) and soft tissue percentage (SF 48.51%). The use of equine bone matrix (EBM) was assessed in four different studies including an RCT, a cross-sectional study and two case series; a mean percentage calculated by the extracted data of the four studies was estimated with newly formed bone (NFB 44.51%), residual grafts (RG 17.24%) and soft tissue percentage (SF 36.62%). EBM appears to be as effective as ABB for the maxillary sinus floor augmentation procedure.

Sinus Augmentation with Simultaneous, Non-Submerged, Implant Placement Using a Minimally Invasive Hydraulic Technique

Background and objectives: To evaluate whether sinus augmentation, using a minimally invasive implant device, via a non-submerged surgical approach, might negatively influence the outcome. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted by evaluating patients’ files, classifying them into two groups. Fifty patients (22 men 28 women) were included in the study, 25 in each group. The use of an implant device based on residual alveolar ridge height for sinus augmentation, radiographic evaluation, insertion torque, membrane perforation, post-operative healing, and a minimum of 12 months follow-up were evaluated. Results: The mean residual alveolar ridge height was 5.4 mm for the non-submerged group and 4.2 mm for the submerged group. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications (including membrane perforations). The mean insertion torque was 45 N/cm for the study group and 20 N/cm for the control group. Complete soft tissue healing was observed within three weeks. Mean bone gain height was 8 mm for the study and 9.3 mm for the control group. All implants osseointegrated after 6–9 months of healing time. Mean follow-up was 17.5 months, range 12–36 months. Marginal bone loss at last follow-up was not statistically significantly different: 1 mm in the non-submerged vs. 1.2 mm in the submerged group. Conclusions: Submerged and non-submerged healing following maxillary sinus augmentation was comparable provided residual alveolar ridge height >5 mm and insertion torque >25 N/cm.

Long-Term Influence of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) on Dental Implants after Maxillary Augmentation: Implant Survival and Success Rates

The atrophic maxilla often requires bone augmentation before implant placement to ensure long-term implant success. A previous prospective clinical trial examined the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) during maxillary augmentation. The short-term results showed no positive effect of PRP. The aim of this study was to evaluate the same patient collective of the previous study regarding the PRP long-term impact on the survival and success of dental implants. Fifty-three patients from the previous study diagnosed with maxillary atrophy and augmented with autologous bone grafts from the iliac crest and dental implants, were included in this study. Treatment was carried out on both sides in 34 patients with a split-mouth-design in which one randomly chosen side was treated additionally with PRP, the other side was the control-side. Nineteen patients were treated only on one side and were assigned to the PRP-or the control group randomly. Implant follow-up of the patients from the previous study was performed after an average time of 13 years. Implant success was evaluated using two different success criteria. Thitry-seven patients (25 women and 12 men) were investigated in this study. Seventeen patients (12 female, 5 male) were included in the PRP group, while 20 patients (13 female, 7 male) participated in the control group. A total of 210 implants were inserted. Of these, 102 implants (48.57%) were placed in the PRP group and 108 implants (51.42%) in the control group. Out of 102 investigated implants in the PRP group, 6 were removed (survival rate 94.1%). While two of the 108 implants in the control group were loss (survival rate 98.1%). In the PRP group, the cumulative probability of survival after 15.1 years was 94.1% and in the control group, was 98.1%, with no significant difference between the two groups. Higher significant difference for the control group was found in the cumulative success probability using Albrektson criteria (p = 0.05). Positive impact of PRP on long-term implant survival and success could not be found.

Complications in sinus lift

Prosthetic rehabilitation of atrophic maxillary implants often requires grafting owing to vertical and transversal bone deficiency. The use of this procedure in order to insert implants was introduced by Tatum and published as a clinical study by Boyne and James. It can be performed via a lateral or crestal approach. This surgery is now widespread, with good results in terms of bone augmentation and implant osseointegration. Nevertheless, there is a small proportion of patients who have infectious complications with an incidence ranging from 3.5% to 10.5%. We observe that maxillary sinus augmentation is a successful preprosthetic technique for augmentation of the edentulous posterior maxilla. Preoperative assessment of the anatomy of the sinus reduces the rate of complications considerably.

Long-term effectiveness of maxillary sinus floor augmentation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To assess the long-term effectiveness (≥5 years) of maxillary sinus floor augmentation (MSFA) procedures applying the lateral window technique and to determine possible differences in outcome between simultaneous and delayed implant placement, partially and fully edentulous patients and grafting procedures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MEDLINE (1950-May 2018), EMBASE (1966-May 2018) and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (1800-May 2018) were searched. Inclusion criteria were prospective studies with follow-up ≥5 years and a residual bone height ≤6 mm. Outcome measures included implant loss, peri-implant bone level change, suprastructure survival, patient-reported outcome measures and overall complications. Data were pooled and analysed using a random effects model.

RESULTS

Out of 2,873 selected articles, 11 studies fulfilled all inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis revealed a weighted annual implant loss of 0.43% (95% CI: 0.37%-0.49%). Meta-regression analysis did not reveal significant differences in implant loss neither between edentulous and dentate patients nor implants placed simultaneously with or delayed after MSFA, nor implants placed in MSFA using solely autologous bone or bone substitutes. The results of the other outcome measures were favourable, and overall complications were low.

CONCLUSION

MSFA is a reliable procedure in the partially and fully edentulous maxilla for support of dental implants.

CBCT analysis of schneiderian membrane thickness and its relationship with gingival biotype and arch form

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate a relationship between gingival tissue biotypes and arch form with Schneiderian membrane thickness, using limited cone beam computed tomography.

Materials and Methods

A total of 90 subjects were selected. For each subject three parameters were assessed - gingival biotype - clinically by Probe transparency method as thin or thick and coded as 0 and 1, respectively, gingival thickness and Schneiderian membrane thickness in mm, arch form as square, oval, or tapered (radiographically by cone beam computed tomography images). Central incisors and first molars were assessed for gingival biotype and gingival thickness and Schneiderian membrane thickness was determined at 16. Numerical data were estimated for normal distribution. Analysis of Variance test was followed by Tukey honestly significant difference test and Pearson's correlation coefficient test for analysis.

Results

Thin gingival biotype was found associated with the central incisors and thick gingival biotype with molars. Limited cone beam computed tomography scans evaluation revealed highest prevalence of square arch form followed by oval, and tapered. The average thickness of the Schneiderian membrane was 1.18 ± 0.43 mm on left side and 1.09 ± 0.41 mm on right side with a range of 0.50 - 2.00 mm. Mean Schneiderian membrane thickness was more in case of thick gingival biotype and with square arc form both on right and left sides.

Conclusions

The Schneiderian membrane thickness was positively and highly associated with gingival biotype. The gingival biotype and arch form had significant effect on Schneiderian membrane thickness and can provide valuable clinical information on Schneiderian membrane thickness preoperatively for implant placement and sinus lift procedures.

Efficacy of hybrid implants in oral and maxillofacial surgery: A clinical prospective study

Aim:

The present study was aimed to evaluate the efficacy of hybrid implants in replacement of missing teeth in either jaw.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty hybrid implants were placed in maxilla and mandible and the implants were assessed for pain,implant exposure, mobility, infection and wound dehiscence at first, third and sixth month postoperatively.

Results:

According to our study the statistical data showed that all the parameters which were seen clinically were nonsignificant.

Conclusion:

Hybrid implants being a new option in this field, our study provides a platform for further research with larger sample size with longer follow ups to be judgemental on their efficacy.

Risk factors in lateral window sinus elevation surgery

Maxillary sinus augmentation is the most predictable of the pre-prosthetic surgical procedures. There are, however, known and well-documented complications that can and do occur. The most common are the intraoperative complications of sinus membrane perforation and bleeding, and the postoperative complications of sinus graft infections, sinus infections, and sinusitis. The majority of these complications can be prevented, or their incidence greatly reduced, through a thorough understanding of maxillary sinus anatomy, the multifaceted etiologies of these conditions, and the steps that can be taken to avoid them. This volume of Periodontology 2000 will discuss both the preoperative and intraoperative procedures that will prevent these untoward outcomes and the necessary treatment modalities that will limit their adverse effects.

Role of mesenchymal stem cells in osteotomy sinus graft healing: a case report and a literature review

Prosthetic rehabilitation of the edentulous posterior maxilla with implant-supported prostheses frequently presents a challenge for the oral surgeon because of the lack of bone due to alveolar ridge resorption or maxillary sinus pneumatization. To overcome these problems, different solutions were proposed over the years. Maxillary sinus membrane elevation is a common surgical technique for increasing bone height in the posterior maxilla prior to dental implant placement. However, the biological nature of bone regeneration in maxillary sinus membrane remains largely unidentified. The authors present a clinical case and literature review to understand the fundamental of bone formation in osteotomy sinus floor elevation.