Meta-analysis of the increase in height in maxillary sinus elevations with osteotome

OBJECTIVES To compare the different variations of sinus elevation techniques with osteotomes, to evaluate the increase in height achieved, and to quantify the osseointegration periods and the success rates for the implants placed. STUDY DESIGN A meta-analytic study with descriptive statistics was carried out on sinus elevations using osteotomes, analyzing a total of 11 articles published between the years 2003 and 2008. RESULTS Summers' classic technique for performing sinus elevations with osteotomes differs from the current techniques being used with respect to the use of drills, the manner in which the sinus floor is fractured and how the sinus membrane is lifted, and especially on the type of graft used-the most current tendency being not to use a graft. The maximum gain in height is 4.62 mm, and the minimum gain in height is 2.07 mm, starting with a maximum residual bone height of 8.8 mm and a minimum of 4.1 mm. The osseointegration period is 4.9 months and the success rate is 95.5%. CONCLUSIONS Performing sinus elevations with osteotomes is a predictable technique that enables achieving an increase in bone height and successful results, similar to those of other techniques used, in the placement of implants.