Effect of Nanocrystalline Calcium Sulfate Bone Graft in a Bilateral Sinus-Augmentation Procedure: A Case Report

Patients with an edentulous posterior maxillary segment frequently lack adequate bone mass to support dental implants. Implant placement into the posterior maxillary ridge can be complicated by limited quantity and poor quality of bone. Sinus lift and bone grafting result in bone regeneration as well as an increase in bone volume and hence help stabilize implants. The challenge of bone deficiency of this segment has been traditionally addressed by two approaches: 1) lateral maxillary window (hinge osteotomy) and 2) the crestal approach via osteotome technique.

A 70-year-old female patient presented needing a full maxillary rehabilitation. The osteotome-closed approach was used on the right side, which was grafted with nanocrystalline calcium sulfate (nCS) bone graft. The lateral window sinus elevation approach was used on the left side, which was grafted with nCS in combination with platelet-rich fibrin. Implants were placed simultaneously. Computed tomography scans showed bone formation in the augmented sites at 6 months. Implants were restored at this time. A 2-year follow-up showed satisfactory results with good implant stability.

This case demonstrates the effective use of nCS for sinus-augmentation cases.