Effects of different grafting materials on volumetric changes in the Schneiderian membrane following lateral maxillary sinus floor elevation: a preliminary study

Abstract Objectives To investigate the potential influence of different grafting materials on maxillary sinus membrane dimensions and ostium patency following lateral sinus floor elevation (SFE) as assessed using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and methods A total of 40 sinuses in 40 patients were included. Twenty sinuses were referred for SFE with deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM), and the remaining 20 sinuses were grafted with calcium phosphate (CP). CBCT was performed prior to and 3 to 4 days after surgery. The dimensions of the Schneiderian membrane volume and ostium patency were evaluated, and potential relationships between volumetric changes and any associated factors were analyzed. Results The median increase in membrane-whole cavity volume ratios was 43.97% in the DBBM group and 67.58% in the CP group, demonstrating no statistically significant difference (p = 0.17). The rates of increased obstruction after SFE were 11.1% for the DBBM group versus 44.4% for the CP group (p = 0.03). The graft volume was found to be positively correlated with the postoperative membrane-whole cavity volume ratio (r = 0.79; p < 0.01) and the membrane-whole cavity volume ratio increase (r = 0.71; p < 0.01). Conclusions The two grafting materials seem to have a similar effect on transient volumetric changes in the sinus mucosa. However, the choice of grafting material should still be made with caution since sinuses grafted using DBBM exhibited less swelling and less ostium obstruction.