Sinus floor augmentation using crestal approach in conjunction with hydroxyapatite/cross-linked collagen sponge: A...

Sinus floor augmentation is a common procedure in dental implantology to restore bone volume in the posterior maxilla. Traditional grafting materials have shown variable success in promoting new bone formation. Recent developments in biomaterials have introduced alternatives that may reduce surgical invasiveness while maintaining graft stability. Prior research has shown that grafting techniques and materials influence implant stability and patient comfort. However, the long-term outcomes of newer materials remain understudied. This pilot study introduces a novel hydroxyapatite-based graft material. It aims to address gaps in understanding how graft volume and height change over time. The study also explores the impact of anatomical factors on graft outcomes. These findings may contribute to improved treatment protocols for dental implant placement.

The goal of this pilot study was to assess the performance of a hydroxyapatite-based, sugar cross-linked collagen sponge in transcrestal sinus floor augmentation. The material was selected for its potential to promote new bone formation without leaving remnants. The study aimed to evaluate graft volume and height changes over one year. It also sought to measure implant stability and patient-reported outcomes. By analyzing anatomical variables, the study aimed to identify factors influencing graft success. The transcrestal approach was chosen for its less invasive nature compared to traditional methods. Researchers wanted to determine if this material could offer a reliable alternative to conventional grafting. The findings may inform future clinical decisions in dental implantology.

The study involved 22 patients undergoing transcrestal sinus floor augmentation with OSSIX™ Bone. Residual bone height was measured using CBCT scans and x-rays. Implant stability was assessed via resonance frequency analysis at baseline and six months. Bone height and volume changes were tracked from baseline to one year. Tridimensional reconstructions were used to evaluate graft volume. Linear regression analyzed the effects of bucco-palatal sinus dimension, residual bone height, and implant protrusion length on graft outcomes. Time series analysis correlograms were used to assess graft volume stability over time. Patient-reported quality-of-life outcomes were collected to evaluate treatment satisfaction.

The mean residual bone height at baseline was 5.81 ± 2.2 mm. The mean graft volume was 1085.8 ± 733.4 mm3. Graft height decreased from 7.24 mm at baseline to 5.46 mm at one year. Implant stability increased from 62.19 ± 8.09 to 76.91 ± 4.50 over six months. A significant correlation was found between buccolingual dimension and graft volume at one year. Protrusion into the sinus showed a positive correlation with graft height at both six and twelve months. Time series analysis indicated no significant change in graft volume over time. Eighty-six percent of patients reported no chewing interference.

The study suggests that OSSIX™ Bone may offer a valid option for sinus floor augmentation due to its manageability and ability to promote new bone formation. The transcrestal approach was confirmed as less invasive and less painful compared to traditional methods. Graft volume remained stable over the one-year follow-up period. The material’s performance was supported by positive implant stability outcomes. Anatomical factors like implant protrusion length influenced graft height changes. No significant long-term volume loss was observed. These findings may support the use of this material in clinical practice. Further research is needed to confirm these results in larger patient populations.