The transcrestal hydrodynamic ultrasonic cavitational sinuslift: Results of a 2-year prospective multicentre study on 404 patients, 446 sinuslift sites and 637 inserted implants

Introduction: In 2006 an ultrasound-surgery-based method to hydrodynamically detach the sinus-membrane utilizing the ultrasonic cavitation effect—the tHUCSL—was developed and a surgical protocol established. The aim of the study was to determine the indication-range and success-rate of this novelty procedure. Materials & Methods: Between 2007 and 2009, 404 patients were treated by 6 oral surgeons of different experience-levels with the tHUCSL in 446 sinussites. 637 implants were inserted and then prosthodontically treated and observed and documented until December 2011. The subantral space was augmented via the 3 mm transcrestal approach with an augmentation volume of 1.9 ccm (+/? 0.988 ccm) and an augmentation height of 10.7 mm (+/? 2.85 mm). Results: Within the survey-period 15 (2.35%) of the 637 inserted implants were lost, mostly before implant loading due to postsurgical infection and nonosseointegration in the augmentation site. 1 implant was lost after implant loading and prosthetic treatment within 1 year after loading. The overall success rate with functional implants in site is 97.65% evenly distributed among the participating surgeons. 86% of the patients were observed with no postsurgical swelling and 87% no postsurgical pain. Discussion: The results suggest the tHUCSL to be a safe minimal-invasive alternative to traditional lateral approach and transcrestal osteotome sinuslift-procedures applicable to all anatomical situations.