Space-maintaining management in maxillary sinus lifting: a novel technique using a resorbable polymeric...

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Sinus floor elevation is crucial for dental implant placement in the atrophic posterior maxilla.
• Traditional methods involve grafting materials, acting as scaffolds for new bone formation.
• Alternative techniques are sought to simplify procedures and enhance bone regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a non-graft sinus lifting procedure utilizing a resorbable polymeric thermo-reversible gel.
• To assess the efficacy of this space-maintaining gel in promoting new bone formation within the maxillary sinus.
• To histologically and histomorphometrically analyze bone regeneration and tissue response.

Main Methods:

• A space-maintaining sinus lifting technique with a resorbable gel was performed on 11 patients.
• A 6-month healing period preceded implant placement and biopsy.
• Histological and histomorphometric analyses evaluated new bone, residual gel, and fibrous tissue percentages.

Main Results:

• Histological examination revealed new bone formation with minimal fibrous tissue and no severe inflammation.
• Newly formed bone constituted 54-60% of the analyzed area, comprising lamellar and woven bone.
• Minimal residual gel and connective tissue were observed, with no foreign-body reaction.

Conclusions:

• The non-graft sinus lifting procedure using a space-maintaining gel effectively stimulates predictable bone formation.
• This technique represents a viable alternative for promoting bone regeneration in the maxillary sinus.
• The resorbable gel serves as a scaffold, facilitating bone development without adverse tissue reactions.