Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the radiographical outcomes and survival rate of implants placed during graftless lateral sinus lift approach (GLSLA) using an absorbable collagen sponge.
Materials and methods: Fourteen patients (14 sinus augmentations) were consecutively treated with GLSLA. After Schneiderian membrane elevation and implant insertion, only collagen sponges were used to fill the new sinus compartment. After 4 months of healing, implants were functionally loaded. The radiographical marginal bone variation and apical bone gain were assessed on periapical radiographs taken 4 months after the surgery (at crown insertion) and at 12 months post-loading.
Results: A total of 41 implants were placed in a mean initial residual bone height of 3.5 mm (range 1.6-6.7 mm). No failure was recorded and all the implants were successfully loaded with fixed prosthesis. Twelve months post-loading the mean radiographic bone remodeling was 2.22 mm. The mean ridge height was 8.4 mm and the mean apical bone gain amounted for 4.4 mm.
Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, the placement of dental implants in conjunction with GLSLA using only a collagen sponge to fill the sinus compartment seems to be feasible and accompanied by a high implant survival rate. Further studies on a large population and with a longer follow-up are warranted to drawn definitive conclusions.
Keywords: Blood clot; Bone remodeling; Collagen sponge; Dental implant; Sinus floor elevation.