Arteries of the anterior wall of the maxilla in sinus lift surgery

Abstract

Knowledge of the anatomical course of the anterior maxillary wall and alveolar process arteries is essential for sinus lift procedures. The aim of this study was to analyse the localization of anastomoses between the infraorbital and posterior superior alveolar artery on 101 computed tomography (CT) scans of maxillary sinuses (patients aged 18–70 years). The distance from the anastomosis to the bone point was measured on CT scans for each tooth location; for edentulous patients measurements were made to the lower edge of the alveolar process, and for dentate patients to the neck of the tooth. Measurements were done independently by two observers. The anastomosis analysed was identified on 50% of CT scans. The distance to the anastomosis was longest above the premolar (20.4mm from tooth cervical line) and shortest above the first molar (15.9mm to the edge of the alveolar process). The anastomosis can be localized on a CT scan for exact positioning of the antrotomy in 50% of patients. For the remaining patients, the anatomical information provided in this study can be used to reduce the risk of damage to the anastomosis. This study provides information on the distance from the anastomosis to the neck of preserved teeth in partially edentulous patients, which can be used as a reference point during sinus lift procedures.