Maxillary sinus floor augmentation using blood without graft material. Preliminary results in 10 patients.

PURPOSE The maxillary sinus lift is recognized and stable, and there have been different innovations to optimize the technique. The aim of this study was to investigate the maxillary sinus lift technique with the use of a blood clot and without the use of a bone graft. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ten patients were recruited for a unilateral sinus lift; patients without sinus pathology or other contraindication were selected. The maxillary sinus was accessed conventionally under local anesthesia followed by an osteotomy and a 1-cm(2) bony window access. The sinus membrane was detached and the window was repositioned above and stabilized with a 12- or 14-mm osteosynthesis screw introduced through the alveolar ridge. Dental implants were installed in the second surgical stage. Standardized panoramic radiographic checks were performed at every stage. RESULTS Seven completely edentulous patients and 3 partially dentate patients were treated surgically. From the first to the second surgery, a bone gain of 2.37 mm was obtained, although loss of bone height was observed in 1 completely edentulous patient. In 7 patients, it was not possible to install the implants owing to insufficient bone height or inadequate bone quality. CONCLUSION The protocol used in this investigation failed in the bone increase required for implant installation.