Effect of schneiderian membrane perforation on posterior maxillary implant survival.

Background: To assess the survival rate of implants placed in the posterior maxilla by intentionally perforating the Schneiderian membrane and protruding the implant up to 3mm beyond the sinus floor in cases of reduced crestal bone height (CBH).

Materials & methods: 56 patients with reduced CBH received 63 implants in the posterior maxilla. All implants intentionally penetrated the Schneiderian membrane and engaged the sinus floor cortical bone. All patients were followed up and implant survival was assessed at the end of one year post implant restoration.

Results: Out of 63 implants, there was only one failure (98.4% Survival rate) after a follow up period of one year. 7 patients experienced mild epistaxis during the immediate post-operative period with no associated implant loss. One patient developed sinusitis secondary to the surgical procedure, which was treated by antibiotic therapy and the patient improved clinically with no associated implant loss.

Conclusion: An intentional perforation of the Schneiderian membrane using a 2mm twist drill at the time of implant placement and protrusion of the implant up to 3mm beyond the sinus floor does not alter the stability and outcome of dental implants, one year post-restoration. This could be associated with minor complications ranging from epistaxis to sinusitis, which are manageable. How to cite this article: Nooh N. Effect of Schneiderian Membrane Perforation on Posterior Maxillary Implant Survival. J Int Oral Health 2013; 5(3):28-34.