An unusual complication of osteotome sinus floor elevation: benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

Maxillary sinus floor elevation in cases of reduced vertical bone height in the posterior maxilla allows predictable implant placement. The osteotome sinus floor elevation (OSFE) technique has shorter healing and waiting times because the fixture can be placed in the implant recipient site simultaneously with the ridge augmentation. Implant site preparation is more comfortable for the patient when performed with spiral drills than with continuous malleting of the osteotomes. Membrane perforation is the most frequent complication with the OSFE technique; postoperative infection is rare. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) may be a complication of OSFE and may cause stress if not identified correctly and managed properly. The available treatment options, diagnostic strategies and the pathophysiology of this unusual complication are discussed. The authors present a case in which intense BPPV developed during OSFE, focusing on dental and maxillofacial surgery as risk factors for this pathology.