Maxillary sinus augmentation with microstructured tricalcium phosphate ceramic in sheep

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the biological performance of osteoinductive microstructured tricalcium phosphate (MSTCP) particles in maxillary sinus floor augmentation surgery in sheep. Material and methods: Sinus floor augmentation was performed in eight Swifter sheep. In each animal, the maxillary sinus floor was unilaterally augmented with MSTCP particles. Computed tomography (CT) imaging and histological analyses were performed after 12 weeks of implantation. Results: Maxillofacial CT, histology, histomorphometrical analysis and sequential polychrome fluorescent labeling indicated that MSTCP particles provided a scaffold for cell ingrowth and bone formation. After a 12-week implantation period, the sinuses grafted with MSTCP showed an increased bone height of 6 mm and a mean total bone volume of 43%, with significant degradation of MSTCP particles. Conclusion: MSTCP particles represent a suitable bone substitute material for maxillary sinus floor augmentation surgery.