Bone-added osteotome technique versus lateral approach for sinus floor elevation: a comparative radiographic study

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral Surgery
• Implantology

Background:

• Maxillary sinus floor elevation is crucial for dental implant placement in the posterior maxilla.
• Comparing different sinus elevation techniques is essential for optimizing outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To radiographically compare bone formation and graft stability between bone-added osteotome sinus floor elevation (BAOSFE) and lateral approach sinus floor elevation.
• To evaluate the long-term (2-year) radiographic results of these two sinus elevation techniques.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study included 43 patients who received dental implants with either BAOSFE or lateral approach sinus floor elevation.
• Radiographic changes were assessed using orthopantomographs at 24 months post-procedure, with follow-ups at 6, 12, and 24 months.

Main Results:

• Significant bone formation was observed: 6.75 mm for BAOSFE and 11.36 mm for the lateral approach.
• The majority of graft height loss (62.8%) occurred within the first 6 months.
• Overall bone loss over 24 months was minimal, averaging 1.35 mm for BAOSFE and 1.36 mm for the lateral approach.

Conclusions:

• Both BAOSFE and lateral approach sinus floor elevation techniques demonstrate long-term graft height stability.
• While gradual decrease in graft height occurs over two years, the changes are clinically insignificant.
• Both methods are effective for maxillary sinus augmentation prior to dental implant placement.