IS MEMBRANE USAGE REALY NECESSARY FOR SINUS LIFTING OPERATION IN LATERAL WINDOW TECHNIQUE

Abstract

Background Although the placement of a membrane after sinus floor augmentation promotes faster initialization of bone formation, there is evidence that these procedures may be successful and predictable without membrane barriers. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of defects that might occur due to soft tissue invasion in the antrostomy area in two groups where membrane application was used or not used on the lateral window. Methods Comparisons of implant survival in the groups and the amounts of bone generation were also investigated. Forty patients were selected for the study, and they were randomized into two groups in which membrane application was used (study group) or not used (control group). Twelve months following the procedure, images of the region were taken with computerized dental volumetric tomography. Results The difference between the groups in terms of bone diameter was evaluated with an independent t test. No defect areas were found radiographically in the lateral window region in the groups. The mean bone diameter of the control group was 13.063 mm (±2.4 mm) and that of the study group was 14.10 mm (±5.8 mm). There was no significant difference between the groups in bone diameter. There were no losses in any of the implants that were placed in either group. Conclusion The use of a membrane to close the lateral window did not play any important role in the formation of bone defects.