Histomorphometric analysis of human maxillary sinus lift with a new bone substitute biocomposite: a preliminary report.

PURPOSE To analyze radiographic and histological outcomes of maxillary sinus floor augmentation using a calcium-sulfate based allograft containing demineralized bone matrix particles. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifteen maxillary sinus lift procedures with simultaneous placement of titanium implants were performed in 12 patients of both genders aged 36-71 years. Each sinus cavity was filled by the biocomposite. After 3 months of healing, all surgical sites were uncovered and bone biopsies were retrieved for undecalcified histology and histomorphometry. The ratio between the original and the grafted sinus height (GSH/OSH) was computed using a panoramic radiography taken immediately after surgery and at 3 months of healing, and the two ratios were compared by Wilcoxon signed-rank test. RESULTS By 3 months, all implants were stable without clinical and radiographic signs of infection. Significant changes in GSH/OSH during healing were seen (2.7 +/- 0.6 initially vs. 2.6 +/- 0.5 after healing; p = 0.01). Histologic findings showed newly formed bone surrounding the residual grafted particles without inflammation. At 3 months, mean regenerated bone density was 33.8 +/- 8.6%; marrow spaces amounted to 32.3 +/- 10.3%; residual graft was 33.9 +/- 9.0%. Similar histomorphometric and radiographic results were obtained independently from patient age or sex. CONCLUSIONS The analysed putty seems to be a safe and effective graft material for maxillary sinus floor augmentation by accelerating bone regeneration and thus reducing the healing time.