One-step lateral window approach for removal of benign minor sinus pathologies combined with transcrestal sinus floor elevation without bone grafts: a retrospective study

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of a lateral window approach for removal of benign minor sinus pathologies combined with transcrestal sinus floor elevation. From 2014 to 2018, all patients who received sinus pathology removal via a lateral window approach combined with transcrestal sinus floor elevation were screened. The serous exudate or minor sinus pathology was drained or removed via lateral window approach. Subsequently, transcrestal sinus floor elevation without grafting and simultaneous implant placement were performed. Panoramic radiographs and cone-beam computed tomography were taken preoperatively, immediately after surgery, and after prosthesis delivery. Twelve patients were included in this study. The decrease in Schneiderian membrane thickness was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Endo-sinus bone formation was observed on the buccal (1.35 ± 2.31 mm) and palatal (1.61 ± 2.65 mm) sites of the implant. The implant survival rate was 100%. All implants survived for an average of 21.83 ± 11.11 months. Within the limitations of this study, we suggest that the lateral window approach for minor sinus pathology removal combined with transcrestal sinus floor elevation has several advantages including endo-sinus bone gain without bone graft, minimal patient discomfort, reduced postoperative complications and shorter treatment period.