Lateral window sinus augmentation: complications and outcomes of 101 consecutive procedures

To report the complications experienced and the outcomes of simultaneous or staged dental implants placed during 101 consecutive sinus augmentation procedures through the lateral window approach.

Sixty-eight consecutive patients underwent a total of 101 sinus augmentations. Thirty-nine patients were operated on unilaterally and 29 bilaterally. A total of 141 implants were installed, 65 simultaneously and 76 in a second stage.

In 13 of the 101 sinuses, the Schneiderian membrane was perforated. Three patients developed maxillary sinusitis. Two patients suffered perioperative hemorrhages. One patient had a wound dehiscence, and 3 patients developed graft infections. Of the 141 implants, 121 integrated and 14 failed. There was a statistical difference between the losses of implants placed simultaneously versus nonsimultaneously (P = 0.003). The overall postloading success rate for dental implants reached 90% after a follow-up period between 12 and 120 months.

The lateral window approach is associated with a high rate of success. Yet, some complications can influence the outcome of clinical treatment. Simultaneous placement of implants during sinus augmentation significantly affects their chance of success.