Cappellin simplified sinus lift protocol for mini-invasive lateral approach - Preliminary study results

Abstract

Purpose: The lateral approach in sinus lift allows to optimally manage severe bone resorption in posterior maxilla in order to place implant supported prosthesis; however, the conventional protocols requires bigger window and cannot determine in advance the precise position for bone incision, so in many cases the detachment of Schneider membrane is more difficult if the bone isn’t cut near the sinus floor or if there is a bone septum. The aim of Cappellin simplified sinus lift protocol is to minimize the surgical difficulties with a surgical guide realized from STL 3D printed model (conversion of DICOM cone-beam CT files). Case report: In our study (since 2013 to 2017) in 125 sinus lift cases (performed with Geistlich Bio-Oss® and a-PRF / PRGF) with 210 implants (Implant Direct® Legacy 2, 78 of which were placed at the same time as the sinus lift augmentation) we obtain a success of 100% for the sinus lift augmentation and 100% survival rate for the implants; we also drastically reduce the surgery time (average is about 25 minutes). CT scans were performed before the surgery and 4-6 months after the sinus lift; follow up for implant survival includes control and professional hygiene every 6 months. Conclusions: In regards of these preliminary results, Cappellin simplified sinus lift protocol offers advantages in terms of safety, simplicity, quickness, reliability and allows to reduce the economic costs of the procedure.