Maxillary sinus floor augmentation comparing removing versus retaining antral pseudocyst: A retrospective cohort...

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Dental Implantology
• Regenerative Dentistry

Background:

• Antral pseudocysts (AP) can complicate maxillary sinus floor augmentation (MSFA).
• The management of AP (removal vs. retainment) before MSFA and immediate implant placement is debated.
• Understanding volumetric changes in hard and soft tissues is crucial for predictable outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare multilevel volumetric changes in hard and soft tissues.
• To evaluate outcomes between AP removal and retainment prior to MSFA and immediate implant placement.
• To assess long-term bone graft stability and implant prognosis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of 26 patients (38 implants).
• Comparison between AP removal (RC group) and retainment (LC group).
• 3D and 2D radiographic analysis, clinical records, and follow-up over 2-5 years.

Main Results:

• Bone graft volumetric change rate was significantly lower in the RC group (-9.32%) vs. LC group (-19.8%) from 6-12 months post-op (p<0.05).
• No significant differences in apical bone height or endo-sinus bone gain between groups.
• RC group had 0% complications, thinner Schneiderian membrane, and slightly lower implant failure rate (5.3% vs. 9.1%).

Conclusions:

• AP removal before MSFA and immediate implant placement enhances bone graft volumetric stability.
• Retaining AP may lead to greater bone resorption and potentially compromise implant prognosis.
• AP removal is recommended for improved outcomes in MSFA with immediate implant placement.