Sinus floor augmentation with a hydropneumatic technique: a retrospective study in 40 patients

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Dental Implantology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Sinus floor augmentation is crucial for dental implant placement in the posterior maxilla.
• Traditional sinus lift techniques can be invasive and associated with complications.
• A minimally invasive method for sinus membrane elevation is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a new hydropneumatic balloon technique for sinus membrane elevation.
• To assess bone height changes and implant survival rates following this procedure.
• To report complications associated with the hydropneumatic sinus lift.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 40 patients undergoing sinus floor augmentation with a hydropneumatic balloon.
• Use of piezosurgical instruments and microscopy for membrane elevation.
• Calcium sulfate injection and simultaneous implant placement.

Main Results:

• Significant increase in bone height to 14.66 ± 1.48 mm at 12 months.
• Average sinus membrane elevation of 9.01 ± 3.01 mm.
• 56 implants placed with zero failures after 1 year; only minor lacerations reported.

Conclusions:

• The hydropneumatic balloon technique is a safe, predictable, and minimally invasive method for sinus floor augmentation.
• This technique offers reduced trauma and a short learning curve, suitable for private practice.
• Excellent outcomes in terms of bone regeneration and implant stability were observed.