Sinus Augmentation Perils…Pitfalls…& Attending Protocols

Placement of endosseous fixtures in the posterior maxilla is sometimes a challenge given attending the bone deficit.  

Augmenting the bone volume in the posterior maxilla has been professed and practiced with a predictable outcome since more than four decades.  

Two basic techniques with a bunch of variations are followed across the globe. Either we enter through the lateral maxillary wall or through the crest and the complexities differ accordingly. 

Clinicians need to understand the nuances of anatomy, physiology, surgical protocols and biomaterials for a successful outcome. This helps circumvent intraoperative and postoperative complications. 

When speaking of sinus elevation complications the commonest that comes to mind is Schneiderian membrane perforation. Bleeding, infection, loss of biomaterial and wound dehiscence are among others. 

Key points 

1. Carefull assessment to circumvent intra operative incidents 

2. Management of unforeseen intra operative circumstances 

3. Postoperative perils that haunt the clinician