The effects of resorbable membrane on human maxillary sinus graft: a pilot study.

PURPOSE

To investigate the effects of resorbable membrane on new bone formation in human maxillary sinus graft using anorganic bovine bone material histomorphometrically in a split-mouth study design.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective pilot study included six patients who required bilateral sinus augmentations prior to implant treatment. Each patient was grafted with anorganic bovine bone (Bio-Oss). The experimental side was covered with resorbable membrane (Bio-Gide) over the grafted sinus, and the control side was left uncovered. After 8 months of healing (range, 7 to 9 months), implants were placed. Biopsy samples were obtained from each side through the previously grafted sinus window and evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test at a significance level of alpha = .05.

RESULTS

The control side appeared to have a significantly greater amount of soft tissue than the experimental side (P = .026), whereas no significant differences in the amount of new bone were observed (P = .937).

CONCLUSION

Resorbable membranes significantly reduced the amount of soft tissue formed in the sinus grafted with anorganic bovine bone material but had no effect on new bone formation.