Bone-Added Osteotome Technique Versus Lateral Approach for Sinus Floor Elevation: A Comparative Radiographic Study

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the radiographic results of bone-added osteotome sinus floor elevation (BAOSFE) and lateral approach sinus floor elevation techniques. Methods: The 43 patients who had undergone implant procedure with either BAOSFE or lateral approach method on their maxillary molar edentulous area were included. Their dental records were confirmative and the radiographic-changes using orthopantomographs were consistently checked up during 2 years after the procedure (immediately after procedure and 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months after implant placement). Results: The radiographic evaluation after 2 years of implantation with sinus elevation showed the significant amount of bone formation (6.75 mm for BAOSFE and 11.36 mm for lateral approach method). Largest amount of grafted height loss occurred during the first 6 months (62.8% of total amount of bone loss), but the resorption was minimal (1.35 mm for BAOSFE and 1.36 mm for lateral approach method) for overall 24 months. Conclusion: Long-term stability of graft height was achieved using both BAOSFE and lateral approach sinus floor elevation. Overall, graft height decreased gradually during 2 years after procedures, but the changes were minimal. (Implant Dent 2011; 20: 465-470)