Sinus lift surgery -various aspects-
The crucial factor in ensuring the success of an implant lies in both the quantity and quality of the bone at the placement site. Historically, inserting dental implants in the upper posterior jaw has been challenging due to limited bone volume and density, along with the nearby sinus being in close proximity.
Why Sinus lift surgery is required ?-
In cases where bone loss has occurred in that specific area, possibly due to factors like periodontal disease or teeth loss, there might not be sufficient bone available for implant placement.
Sinus lift surgery, also referred to as sinus augmentation, is a procedure that can address this issue by elevating the sinus floor and creating bone for the insertion of dental implants. Various methods are available to elevate the sinus and promote the regeneration of new bone tissue.
Proceedure of sinus lift surgery –
In a typical procedure, a small cut is performed in the gum to reveal the underlying bone. Next, a small circle is carefully cut into the bone. With a gentle lift, this bony piece is placed into the sinus cavity, resembling a trap door, and then filled with bone graft material below. Your periodontist will be able to discuss with you the various bone graft materials available, which are designed to restore lost bone and tissue.
Recovery and Risks Recovery and Risks of sinus lift surgery –
Recovery typically takes several months, as the bone graft integrates with the existing bone.
Risks are generally low but can include infection, sinus problems, or graft rejection, though these complications are rare.
Sinus lift surgery is a crucial step for many people who need dental implants in the upper jaw and can dramatically improve the chances of successful implant placement .
Anatomy of the maxillary sinus in relation to sinus lift surgery –
The maxillary sinus is an air-filled space that occupies the maxilla on both sides1 and is encircled by the nasal cavity in a medial direction, the maxillary tuberosity in a lateral direction, the orbit above, and the alveolar bone below.
Anatomy and Physiology of the Maxillary Sinus
The maxillary sinus, which is also referred to as the antrum of Highmore, is nearly absent in newborns. The maxillary sinus gradually fills with air over time, resulting in an increase in sinus volume as one ages. This pneumatization process continues for the duration of life, leading to the continually enlarging sinus cavity. The bone that is resorbed due to this cavity widening is the maxillary alveolar bone, which provides support to the teeth. The maxillary sinus is recognized as the largest of the paranasal sinuses. Its exact function is not clearly understood; however, it is believed to lighten the skull, humidify the air taken in, and assist in voice resonance. 3
The sinus is lined with a pseudostratified ciliated columnar/cuboidal epithelium, referred to as the schneiderian membrane. This delicate membrane generates mucus through goblet cells and includes a basement membrane with sporadic osteoblasts. The ciliated membrane serves to transport mucus and debris to the ostium semilunaris, facilitating its exit from the sinus cavity. The ostium is located above the depth of the sinus floor, thus necessitating that the ciliated cells propel the mucus in a cephalad direction. The ostium is positioned within the semilunar hiatus of the middle meatus of the nasal cavity and is a narrow opening that can be easily blocked by mucosal swelling, consequently hindering proper drainage of the maxillary sinus.
Blood supply to the maxillary sinus is plentiful and comes from the following sources
