Lateral Window Maxillary Sinus Augmentation – Complications and Management

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Introduction: The sinus lift procedure is the most predictable surgical intervention for enhancing bone quality and quantity in the posterior maxilla prior to the placement of endosseous dental implants. However, despite careful planning and precise surgical technique, several complications can arise. These include - haemorrhage, membrane perforation, infection, wound dehiscence, post operative pain, implant failure/ loss, graft loss, hematoma, barrier membrane exposure, oroantral fistula and sinusitis. Aim: The purpose of this report was to address the most common complications associated with the sinus lift procedure and discuss how to avoid and manage them when they occur. Methodology: A total of 140 articles from peer reviewed journals published in English from January 1986 to January 2023 were collected from a search performed using MEDLINE and PubMed. The keywords utilized were “dental implant”, “sinus augmentation”, “sinus complication”, “membrane perforation”, “bleeding – sinus augmentation”. Twenty-nine of the 140 articles satisfied the inclusion criteria and were utilized in this article. Results: Sinus membrane perforation is the most prevalent complication of maxillary sinus augmentation procedures, ranging from 11-60%. An incidence of 28% perforation rate is found. Bleeding was reported with an incidence of 2% of the sinus procedures performed. The use of piezoelectric devices as well as other measures play an important role in ensuring the stopping of bleeding. Conclusion: Proper planning and management of these complications will minimize the negative effects on therapy and allow for a successful implant result when placed in augmented maxillary sinuses.