sinus augmentation
A surgical procedure to increase bone height in the posterior maxilla by elevating the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material.
Full Definition
Sinus augmentation, also called sinus lift or sinus floor elevation, is a surgical procedure performed to increase the amount of bone in the posterior maxilla when insufficient bone height exists for dental implant placement. The procedure involves creating a window in the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus, carefully elevating the Schneiderian membrane, and placing bone graft material in the created space. This can be performed using lateral approach (lateral window technique) or crestal approach (osteotome technique) depending on the amount of existing bone. The graft material may be autogenous, allogeneic, xenogeneic, or synthetic. After a healing period of 4-9 months, sufficient bone volume is typically available for successful implant placement in the posterior maxilla.
Usage
Usage note: Preferred over 'sinus lift' in formal surgical documentation.
In Context
- "Sinus augmentation was performed bilaterally using xenograft to enable posterior implant placement." — Surgical treatment plan
- "The patient required sinus augmentation due to pneumatization following premolar extractions." — Implant consultation