Sinus augmentation using a mini-pig model: Effect of ceramic and allogeneic bone biomaterials

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Current sinus augmentation relies on allogeneic, xenogeneic, or synthetic bone grafts.
• Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) in an absorbable collagen sponge carrier (ACS) supports bone formation in sinus augmentations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate bone formation and dental implant osseointegration after implanting biphasic ceramic and allogeneic bone biomaterials in a mini-pig sinus augmentation model.

Main Methods:

• Nine Göttingen mini-pigs underwent sinus augmentation using a biphasic ceramic (15% HA/85% ß-TCP) or allogeneic mineralized bone biomaterial.
• Control sites received sham surgery; two implants were placed per sinus.
• Histologic analysis was performed at 8 weeks.

Main Results:

• Both biphasic ceramic and allogeneic bone biomaterials significantly increased bone formation compared to controls (p < 0.05).
• Osseointegration was significantly enhanced by both biomaterials over controls (p < 0.05).
• No significant differences in bone formation or osseointegration were found between the two biomaterials.

Conclusions:

• Biphasic ceramic and allogeneic bone biomaterials enhance bone formation in the mini-pig maxillary sinus.
• However, the bone support for dental implants was incomplete, leading to limited overall osseointegration.