Treatment of the posterior atrophic maxilla using a three-dimensional reconstruction technique with sinus lift and a “tunnel” approach

Abstract

Purpose

In maxillary defects with a significant vertical component, the reconstruction of the alveolar process is advisable in order to avoid disproportionate long implant supported crowns. This article evaluates the safety and efficacy of the treatment of the atrophic posterior maxilla with the three-dimensional reconstruction technique with autologous bone graft associated to the sinus lift technique in the same procedure. The unique approach for the recipient site was a sub-periosteal mucosal tunnel made through a single vestibular vertical incision. This approach avoids exposure and resorption, the main complications in on-lay grafting.

Materials and methods

This retrospective study included 12 cases of atrophic posterior maxilla treated consecutively with this combined technique between January 2011 and July 2012. The alveolar crest was reconstructed to a minimum width of 6 mm, increasing its height and decreasing the interocclusal distance to achieve the established success criteria of accurate insertion of implants equal or larger than 3.8 mm diameter and 11 mm length.

Results

The average gain in bone height was 4.54 mm. Implant surgery was carried out 4 months after augmentation. A total of 25 implants were inserted with a 96% success. Patients were followed-up for an average of 18 months after grafting.

Conclusions

Treatment of atrophic posterior maxilla with three-dimensional reconstruction, sinus lift and “tunnel” approach, is an effective technique that provides reliable and stable results, enabling dental rehabilitation with suitable implant supported crowns.