An Animal Ex Vivo Model Comparing Two Different Methods of Sinus Floor Elevation with Great Elevation Heights: Macroscopic, Microscopic and Radiological Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Maxillary sinus pneumatization increases with age and tooth loss, leading to a reduction in the maxillary alveolar ridge, which often results in insufficient bone height for the proper placement of dental implants. This study focused on performing maxillary sinus elevations in ex vivo bisected pig heads using novel access and elevation devices, comparing these with the osteotome sinus floor elevation (OSFE) technique. Materials and Methods:An experimental study was conducted using 20 ex vivo adult pig heads. The sinus elevations were divided into two groups: 10 heads were treated using the osteotome technique, and 10 heads were treated using a new device, which consists of a syringe with latex and saline solution, as well as a burr system for membrane access and control. Results: In the osteotome technique, perforations of the Schneiderian membrane were observed, whereas the inflatable balloon device did not cause any lacerations. Conclusions: OSFE resulted in sinus membrane perforations at greater elevation heights, while the new balloon device successfully elevated the membrane without tearing it. Within the limitations of this study, maxillary sinus lifts using the new balloon technique proved to be minimally invasive procedures.