Sinus Floor Augmentation on at the Time of Maxillary Molar Extraction: Success and Failure Rates of 137 Implants in Function for Up to 3 Years

BACKGROUND: Implant restoration of the posterior maxilla poses significant challenges to the clinician. In an effort to increase the apical occlusal dimension of available bone for implant placement, a number of sinus augmentation approaches have been suggested. This paper describes a simplified technique for predictable sinus augmentation at the time of maxillary molar extraction. METHODS: A modified trephine and osteotome technique was utilized to implode the interradicular bone following maxillary molar extraction. Particulate material and a membrane were then placed to maximize regeneration of alveolar bone. RESULTS: One hundred sixty-seven (167) implants were subsequently placed in regenerated bone following the above technique. One hundred thirty-seven (137) of these implants were restored and in function for up to 3 years at the time of statistical compilation, and 136 of the 137 implants were functioning successfully by the Albrekteson criteria for a cumulative success rate of 97.8%. CONCLUSIONS: The technique presented for simultaneous sinus augmentation at the time of molar extraction, followed by subsequent implant placement after maturation of regenerating tissues, demonstrates a high success rate for up to 3 years in function. Long-term studies may be useful in evaluating the continual efficacy of such an approach.