Anatomical structures in the maxillary sinus related to lateral sinus elevation: a cone beam computed tomographic...

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Lateral approach sinus elevation is a common procedure for posterior maxillary edentulism.
• Understanding maxillary sinus anatomy is crucial for surgical success and complication avoidance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate maxillary sinus anatomical structures relevant to lateral approach sinus elevation.
• To utilize cone beam computed tomography (CT) scans for pre-surgical anatomical assessment.

Main Methods:

• 150 cone beam CT scans from patients undergoing implant-supported restorations were analyzed.
• Measurements of lateral wall width, vessel diameter, and septa prevalence were recorded.
• Relationships between anatomical features and potential surgical risks were investigated.

Main Results:

• The anterior lateral wall was thicker than the posterior.
• A positive correlation was found between lateral wall width and vessel diameter.
• Prevalence of septa was 44%, and intraosseous vessels were visualized in 64.3% of scans.

Conclusions:

• Cone beam CT provides valuable pre-surgical anatomical insights for sinus elevation.
• Modifications to the lateral approach sinus elevation technique may be necessary to mitigate risks.
• Minimizing membrane perforation and bleeding requires careful consideration of anatomical variations.