A radiographic evaluation of graft height changes after maxillary sinus augmentation

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Dental Implantology
• Bone Grafting Procedures

Background:

• Sinus lift procedures are crucial for maxillary posterior dental implant placement.
• Understanding graft height changes is essential for long-term implant success.
• Factors influencing graft resorption require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantitatively assess graft height changes following sinus lift procedures.
• To analyze the impact of residual bone height, surgical approach, and tooth type on graft height stability.
• To evaluate graft height changes over a three-year period.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 39 maxillary posterior implants with simultaneous sinus lifts.
• Panoramic radiography at multiple time points (immediate, 3 months, 6 months, 1, 2, and 3 years).
• Measurement of graft height from implant platform to sinus floor at three locations by a single examiner.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant decrease in graft height was observed at 2 years post-surgery compared to baseline (P<0.05).
• No significant differences in graft height change were found based on surgical approach or tooth type.
• Initial residual bone height significantly influenced graft height changes, with less bone (4-7 mm) showing greater changes than higher bone (≥7 mm) (P<0.05).

Conclusions:

• Graft height significantly diminishes by the two-year mark after sinus augmentation.
• Residual bone height is a critical factor affecting graft height stability.
• Further prospective studies utilizing 3D imaging are recommended to elucidate influencing factors.