1Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
2Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
3Lecturer at the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
Abstract
Introduction: The introduction of Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM) technology in implant dentistry has marked a new era allowing various procedures to be performed with a great level of precision and accuracy. Recently, a novel design of the lateral window osteotomy, the “Low Window” sinus lift technique, was proposed to facilitate sinus augmentation and reduce postsurgical patient discomfort. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the “Low Window” lateral sinus lifting technique. Materials and methods: The study group included 12 patients that were treated using the low window lateral sinus lift technique with simultaneous implant placement. This was facilitated using a CAD-CAM generated surgical guide. Assessment on postoperative pain, edema, implant stability, vertical bone height gain, and complications such as Schneiderian membrane perforation. Results: All patients experienced mild pain postoperatively with a significant decrease in pain from the 1st to 3rd day. Sinus membrane perforation occurred in 2 patients as well as mild postoperative bleeding on the first day. A statistically significant increase in vertical bone height (p < 0.001) was observed as well as in implant stability, while marginal bone loss was within normal limits. Conclusion: The use of computer guided low window lateral sinus lift technique resulted in a satisfactory outcome in terms of postoperative pain, edema, bleeding, sinus perforation rates, implant stability, vertical bone height gained and marginal bone loss.