Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Water Lift System in the Sinus Membrane-Lifting Operation as a Sinus Surgical Instrument

Purpose: The effectiveness of a Water Lift System in the sinus membrane-lifting operation was examined. This investigation focused on the capability of this equipment to reduce the risk of Schneiderian membrane perforation. Materials and Methods: A preliminary clinical study on the use of the Water Lift System in sinus membrane elevation to place implants through the sinus floor was conducted. A total of 70 sinus membrane-lifting operations were performed on patients with various bone heights ranging from 1.2 to 9.9 mm (most commonly in the range of 46 mm) through the lateral approach (four cases) or the crestal approach (66 cases). Results: In all of the cases performed using the lateral approach, sinus membrane perforation did not occur. In the 66 cases performed using the crestal approach, Schneiderian membrane tearing occurred in two cases. The membrane tearing occurred during elevation of the Schneiderian membrane but not when a hole was drilled to access the Schneiderian membrane. One case of membrane tearing resulted from previous inflammation in the maxillary sinus, and the other case of membrane tearing was caused by application of excessive hydraulic pressure. In addition, similar outcomes were obtained and no microbial infections were observed in a total of 68 successful cases. Conclusions: In this study, the Water Lift System was confirmed to effectively reduce the risk of Schneiderian membrane perforation during the sinus membrane-lifting operation. We conclude that the Water Lift System deserves to be considered as a sinus surgical instrument, which ensures safety in the sinus membrane-lifting operation.