Sinus lift
Maxillary sinus floor augmentation is a surgical procedure that increases the amount of bone in the posterior maxilla by lifting the Schneiderian membrane and placing a bone graft.
After upper jaw tooth loss, the bone may shrink and the sinus cavity can expand into the space. Sinus augmentation restores bone volume, creating a stable foundation for dental implant placement.
Indications
The main indication is to provide sufficient bone under the maxillary sinus for implants.Sinus pneumatization and bone resorption can follow long-term tooth loss, periodontal disease, or trauma.
Candidates include:
- Loss of one or more posterior maxillary teeth
- Severe bone loss in the posterior maxilla
- Congenital absence of teeth
- Fully edentulous maxilla needing implants
Technique
Assessment is made with panoramic radiographs or cone beam computed tomography to evaluate sinus anatomy and rule out pathology.Lateral window technique
The lateral approach creates a window in the sinus wall, lifts the membrane, and places graft material. Healing usually takes 4–12 months.Bone substitutes include autograft, allograft, xenograft, and alloplast. Long-term success exceeds 90%.
Osteotome technique
The osteotome method, developed by Hilt Tatum and later described by Robert B. Summers, uses a transcrestal approach with osteotomes. It is less invasive but limited in augmentation. Implant survival remains high.Variations include the Localized Management of Sinus Floor technique and use of electrical mallets to simplify transcrestal elevation.
Complications
Reported complications include:- Schneiderian membrane perforation
- Sinusitis
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Pain, bleeding, or graft failure