Computer guided sinus floor elevation through lateral window approach with simultaneous implant placement.

BACKGROUND: The introduction of CAD/CAM technology in implant dentistry has marked a new era, allowing various procedures to be carried out with a level of great precision and accuracy.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study is to compare the efficacy of a CAD/CAM generated surgical cutting guide in the reduction of incidence of membrane perforation during maxillary sinus floor elevation in relation to the standard lateral window approach technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty cases of maxillary sinus elevation were randomly divided into 2 groups. The first group received computer guided sinus floor elevation through lateral window approach and simultaneous implant placement while the second group received standard sinus elevation procedure through lateral window approach with simultaneous implant placement.

RESULTS: In the computer guided group, 3 out of 10 cases presented with sinus septa, only 1 case suffered from membrane perforation during the elevation process. In the non-guided group, 3 cases suffered from membrane perforation, 2 of which were complicated by sinus septa.

CONCLUSION: Within the limits of this study, computer guided sinus floor elevation showed promising results in accurately modifying the lateral window osteotomy and presents as a safe alternative to the standard technique.